Honor Flight Central Florida flies veterans to D.C. memorials free; seeks volunteers and donations

Landy Dunham, chairman of Honor Flight Central Florida, told Operation Outreach that the volunteer-run nonprofit flies about 60 veterans per mission to Washington, D.C., giving them a full day of visits to national memorials at no cost to the veteran.

"The entire mission is to honor those veterans that have gone before us," Dunham said, describing Honor Flight's focus on World War II, Korean War and Vietnam-era veterans. He said the Central Florida hub opened in 2012 and that Honor Flight began as an effort out of Ohio after the World War II Memorial was completed.

Dunham outlined a three-part process leading up to a flight: an orientation session for veterans and assigned guardians, a flight day that typically departs early from Orlando or Sanford airports, and a return flight late the same day. "We tell the veterans to arrive around 5 a.m.," he said, adding that airports, TSA and local volunteers assist with check-in, wheelchair access and boarding.

On arrival in the Baltimore/Washington area, Dunham said buses take veterans to the National Mall and other sites such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the World War II Memorial and, when available, the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He said the itinerary often includes the Women's Memorial and can include the Air Force or Marine Corps memorials.

Dunham said the nonprofit provides a guardian to every veteran for the full day; guardians help with mobility and personal care and typically pay about $500 to cover their travel and meals. "Every single one of us [on the board] is a volunteer," he said. He estimated each flight's operating cost at roughly $60,000 and said the organization covers expenses through donations and corporate sponsorships.

Priority for seating, Dunham said, generally goes first to World War II and Korean War veterans and to terminally ill Vietnam-era veterans; Honor Flight Central Florida also offers a virtual program for veterans who cannot make the trip because of health or mobility issues. Veterans can apply online or via a paper application; Dunham pointed listeners to the group's website for details and a donation page.

Dunham also highlighted the welcome-home ceremony communities often provide after flights, calling it a powerful moment for veterans and volunteers alike. "My wife tears up every time because it's really powerful," he said, describing veterans hugging volunteers and family members on return.

Fred Robinson, chair of the Orange County mayor's veterans advisory council, closed the segment by thanking Dunham for his service and for leading the local Honor Flight effort. Robinson also said the program would continue the conversation with a veteran who has served as a guardian in a later segment.

For more information or to apply or donate, contact Honor Flight Central Florida via its website.