Among the volunteers were Sarah Geilenfeld, a veteran herself, and Lonnie Watkins, who has deep-seated family ties to the military. Their personal connections and unwavering dedication to honoring our nation’s heroes made their involvement in the Honor Flight particularly meaningful.

As volunteers on the 23rd Brushy Creek Area Honor Flight, we had the incredible privilege of accompanying a group of esteemed veterans on a profound journey of honor and remembrance. On May 10, we embarked on a remarkable adventure, from the send-off ceremony at Fort Dodge Regional Airport to the welcome ceremony at Dulles International Airport near Washington, D.C. Throughout the trip, we witnessed the deep appreciation shown by children and adults, the small details that brought joy to the veterans, and the solemn visits to iconic memorials. As guardians, it was our responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of these extraordinary individuals who had dedicated their lives to serving our nation.

Send-off ceremony at Fort Dodge Regional Airport: The Honor Flight began with an emotionally charged send-off ceremony at Fort Dodge Regional Airport. The atmosphere was filled with a profound sense of patriotism and community support. Families, friends, and well-wishers gathered to bid farewell to the veterans, expressing their heartfelt gratitude and admiration for their service. Witnessing the outpouring of love and respect was a poignant reminder of the impact these veterans had on their communities.

Welcome ceremony at Dulles Airport near Washington, D.C.: Arriving at Dulles Airport near Washington, D.C., we were greeted by a grand and heartwarming welcome ceremony. The sight of military personnel, school children, and enthusiastic supporters lined up to honor our veterans left us all profoundly moved. Each veteran was met with cheers, applause, and heartfelt expressions of gratitude. It was a powerful testament to the lasting impact of their sacrifices.

Lonnie Watkins

Small details and heartfelt appreciation: We had the opportunity to witness the small yet significant details that made this journey memorable for the veterans. The small details of the trip, such as payday and mail call, brought immense joy and gratitude to the veterans. As the Honor Flight staff distributed mail and facilitated the distribution of payments via king size Payday candy bars, they witnessed firsthand the emotional impact of these gestures, rekindling the sense of camaraderie and connection they had experienced during their time in the service. The heartfelt appreciation expressed by children and adults, donned in red, with handshakes, fist bumps, and sincere words of thanks, affirmed the deep gratitude felt by the community for the veterans’ sacrifices.

Visits to iconic landmarks: The trip included visits to iconic memorials that held great significance for the veterans and our nation. Standing before the awe-inspiring Lincoln Memorial, we reflected on the enduring values of freedom and equality. At the solemn Vietnam Memorial and the poignant Korean Memorial, the veterans paid tribute to their fallen comrades, their emotions palpable and deeply respected. Each visit was a reminder of the tremendous sacrifices made by those who served.

Tour of downtown D.C. and monumental reflections: Exploring downtown Washington, D.C. provided an opportunity to delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of the city. The veterans experienced a sense of awe at the World War II Memorial, a testament to the valor and unity that defined that era. Arlington National Cemetery, with its hallowed grounds, served as a place of reverence and reflection, culminating in the humbling changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Marine Corps Memorial and Air Force Memorial, standing tall and proud, honored the valor and commitment of these brave servicemen and women.

Volunteers ensuring safety and well-being: As volunteers, our primary responsibility was to ensure the safety and well-being of the veterans throughout the journey. We provided assistance, including wheelchair support, when necessary, to guarantee that every veteran could fully participate in the activities. It was an honor to serve these heroes, offering a small token of gratitude for their immense sacrifices.

Welcome home ceremony: The Honor Flight concluded with a heartfelt welcome home ceremony. As each veteran deplaned, they were individually announced, cheered for, and thanked for their service.

The 23rd Brushy Creek Area Honor Flight was a truly transformative experience for Lonnie Watkins and Sarah Geilenfeld. From the emotional send-off ceremony to the heartwarming welcome home celebration, this journey of gratitude and remembrance left an indelible mark on their hearts. The small details, the expressions of appreciation, and the visits to iconic memorials all served as powerful reminders of the sacrifices made by our veterans.

As our veterans return home, it is essential for us to translate our appreciation into action. I urge everyone to consider volunteering their time, making donations, and supporting the board of directors in their tireless efforts to continue organizing future Honor Flights. By working together, we can ensure that more veterans have the opportunity to embark on this life-changing journey, honoring their service and preserving their stories for generations to come. Let us stand united in expressing our profound gratitude and providing unwavering support to those who have served our nation so valiantly.

For further information on how you can help please reach out to one of the board members. https://www.webstercountyia.gov/departments/brushy–creek–honor–flights.php

Sarah Geilenfeld is the finance manager of Kemna Auto of Fort Dodge. Lonnie Watkins is the manager of Express Lube of Fort Dodge.