Honor Flight:
Saluting our Heroes
Photo credit: Esther Thalassinos
The Impact and Legacy of Hudson Valley Honor Flight
Honor Flight is a remarkable initiative aimed at honoring the brave men and women who have served in the United States military. The program’s mission is to transport veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit and reflect at the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifices. This journey is not merely a trip; it is a profound experience filled with gratitude, recognition, and healing. There was a time when almost everyone in the USA knew someone who was in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, (and now Space Force). That’s not the case these days. The armed forces have been drawn down in size. Many think Honor Flight is just for combat veterans. Nothing could be further from the truth. Every veteran, no matter which service, no matter where they served, did so to accomplish the mission to deter war and ensure our nation’s security. Every veteran took an oath to “…support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.” Honor Flight honors them all! Honor flight does all this AT NO COST to the veterans!
Photo credit: Esther Thalassinos
On Mission #27, October 8th, 2022, I volunteered to be a guardian. I had not even heard about Honor Flight but once I did, I wanted to help. A guardian is the escort for a particular veteran. I took the training required where I learned that a veteran would be assigned to me at the up-and-coming meet & greet. I went to the event not knowing what to expect. Wow! The firehouse assembly room was packed with so many people! It was run like a Swiss clock, soon I was at the table meeting Bill and his wife. They had hooked me up with an army veteran who was stationed at West Point in 1974 while I was stationed at West Point! What are the odds? It was providence! Bill and I didn’t know each other, he was an engineer, and I was an MP, but we knew some of the same leadership and talked about some of the same things that went on at the academy! Bill and I are still in touch today. The organizers knew nothing that specific about each of us to make this match.
I recently completed Mission #35 on April 12th, 2025! This time I was the veteran! I joined the US Army on May 25th, 1973, during the Vietnam war and retired at the end of July 1996. My guardian? Our daughter, Esther! Veterans being honored may choose to have a close friend or family member be their guardian. Esther was just in 1st grade when we retired. Technically she is an army brat but wasn’t there for much of the career. This opportunity will give Esther the experience about why veterans are being honored and the sacrifices they made to defend our constitution and country. In a similar “coincidence” from two years ago one of the flight leaders told me there was a social studies teacher at the sendoff. She wanted to speak to me about the 5,400 pocket US Constitutions I had distributed to all 8th graders in Orange County. He described her wearing a black Pea-Coat with USMA 2023 on it! Easy to spot! As I approached to introduce myself, I realized it was Kitty! Kitty was my co-guardian as Bill’s best friend was also on the trip…and they had assigned Kitty same as me. It was great to see her!
Our trip was just awesome! I really can’t describe this to you. It was quite an emotional experience for me and my daughter. It snowed Saturday morning, yes in April, which made the plane an hour late. The Hudson Valley Honor Flight team, being the professionals they are, adapted quickly and easily. No one really knew we had a bit of a scheduling change as it was just seamless. When we arrived at Reagan National Airport two fire trucks greeted us with water cannons streaming water across the plane. Only two people get that prestigious treatment. The veterans on Honor Flight and the Captain of a commercial airline who flew his last mission before retiring.
From there it was so much more as we toured. Our bus driver was phenomenal. He is so well versed in this historic city that we all love. We got just the right amount of time at all the memorials. Esther and I spent a lot of time at the Korean War Memorial, the forgotten war. Having spent seven and a half years stationed in Korea I have seen it go from a complete and total dictatorship and third world country to a fully democratized and first world country.
At the Vietnam Memorial a young boy, maybe 9 or 10 walked right up to me with his two hands extended (an Asian tradition of respect) and thanked me for my service. Accompanying him were his mom & dad. I spoke with her for a few minutes. The whole family were National Park Service (NPS) Volunteers. They helped visitors with any questions as well as aided those who wanted to do a rubbing of a name on the wall. It was heartwarming to listen to her tell how her parents escaped Vietnam to Thailand then Cambodia and finally emigrated to the USA. They are grateful to us for trying to fight communism.
We ended our day with a wonderful meal at a Crystal City venue. Then back to Reagan National for our return home flight. As we reached altitude over the intercom came loudly, Mail Call! As our names were called, a large envelope was passed from volunteer to volunteer to reach us. It reminded me of Mail Call so many years ago when we stood in formation listening for our name. So many heartwarming notes were read with joy and tears. Upon arrival at Stewart, much to our amazement, there was a greeter at the final doorway to the terminal. This greeter held us up for a moment, then announced our first name as we stepped into the lobby to a hundred or more there to greet us! “Welcome Home” was heard all the way to the curb!
Click HERE to watch a TikTok Video of the Honor Flight created by Esther Thalassinos
Overview of Honor Flight
Honor Flight was established in 2005 by Earl Morse, a retired Air Force captain and physician assistant. He realized that many World War II veterans would never have the opportunity to visit the national memorial built in their honor due to financial and physical limitations. Thus, he conceived the idea of flying veterans to Washington, D.C., free of charge. Since its inception, Honor Flight has expanded its mission to include Korean War and Vietnam War veterans, ensuring that the legacy of all who served is honored and preserved.
The organization operates through a network of regional hubs across the United States. These hubs are the lifeblood of Honor Flight, mobilizing volunteers, securing funding, and coordinating flights. Each hub is dedicated to serving the veterans in its community, providing a seamless and memorable experience.
Notable quotes from previous Honor Flight veterans:
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- “The reception at the airport brought tears to my eyes.”
- “It was like reliving history with people who truly understand.”
- “I felt appreciated in a way I never expected.”
- “The kindness of the volunteers made the day unforgettable.”
Hudson Valley Honor Flight
Hudson Valley Honor Flight (HVHF) is one of the regional hubs of the national Honor Flight network. Located in New York, HVHF serves veterans from the Hudson Valley region, extending gratitude and recognition to those who have given so much for their country. The hub was founded with the belief that every veteran deserves to be honored and has since become a beacon of appreciation and respect. HVHF relies on donations to operate. Corporate sponsors like ShopRite™ are essential but also individuals like you! See their website for how to help.
The Journey
For veterans participating in Hudson Valley Honor Flight, the journey begins long before the plane takes off. The day of honor starts early, with a ceremonial send-off that includes local dignitaries, family members, and supporters. Veterans are greeted with applause, music, and heartfelt thanks, setting the tone for a day of celebration and reflection.
Upon arrival in Washington, D.C., the veterans visit several sites of national significance. The World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial are among the key destinations. Each site holds profound meaning, offering veterans the opportunity to connect with their past and pay tribute to their fellow soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen. The itinerary also includes a visit to Arlington National Cemetery, where veterans witness the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Impact on Veterans
The experience of Honor Flight is transformative. For many veterans, it is a chance to reconcile with their past, to find closure, and to receive the recognition they may not have received upon returning from war. The camaraderie among fellow veterans and the outpouring of gratitude from the public are deeply moving. Many veterans describe the trip as one of the most meaningful experiences of their lives.
Additionally, the impact extends beyond the day of the flight. The memories and connections formed during the journey continue to resonate, providing veterans with a sense of community and belonging. The experience often sparks conversations about their service, enabling them to share their stories with family and friends, preserving their legacy for future generations.
Volunteer Involvement
Hudson Valley Honor Flight relies heavily on the dedication of its volunteers. These individuals play a crucial role in ensuring the success of each flight, from organizing and fundraising to accompanying veterans on their journey. Volunteers serve as guardians, assisting veterans throughout the day and ensuring their comfort and safety. The commitment and enthusiasm of HVHF volunteers are a testament to the community’s respect and appreciation for its veterans.
Other Honor Flight Hubs in New York
In addition to Hudson Valley Honor Flight, New York is home to several other Honor Flight hubs, each dedicated to honoring veterans from different regions of the state:
Honor Flight Rochester
Honor Flight Rochester serves veterans from the Greater Rochester area. Since its inception, this hub has provided memorable trips for numerous veterans, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve.
Honor Flight Syracuse
Honor Flight Syracuse focuses on veterans from Central New York. The hub organizes flights that allow veterans to visit their memorials and engage in a day of reflection and camaraderie.
Honor Flight Long Island
Honor Flight Long Island serves veterans from the Long Island region. This hub is committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our nation’s heroes by providing them with an unforgettable experience.
Buffalo Niagara Honor Flight
Buffalo Niagara Honor Flight serves veterans from Western New York. This hub works tirelessly to ensure that veterans in their community have the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C. and be celebrated for their service.
Big Apple Honor Flight
Big Apple Honor Flight is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to fly veterans from NYC to DC to honor them for all their sacrifices.
Leatherstocking Honor Flight
Since our first flight in 2008, we’ve had the support of our local communities which has allowed us to conduct 1-2 missions per year. We have honored over 1,500 Veterans to date. It’s been a great honor and a humbling experience for all of us at Leatherstocking Honor Flight to host these missions.
North Country Honor Flight
North Country Honor Flight is dedicated to honoring the veterans of the north country with that trip to Washington. North Country Honor Flight exists to keep President Truman’s promise to our veterans, that America will never forget their sacrifices.
Patriot Flight Capital District Region
Patriot Flight Inc. an all-volunteer not-for-profit organization created to honor America’s Veterans for all their sacrifices. We Honor our local veterans by escorting them to Washington, DC to visit and reflect at their memorials for their service, sacrifices and memories.
Twin Tiers Honor Flight
Twin Tiers Honor Flight is a non-profit charitable organization created solely to honor America’s veterans for their sacrifices. As part of the national Honor Flight Network, we transport veterans to Washington, D.C. in honor of their service so that they can visit and reflect at their memorials.
Funding and Support
The success of Hudson Valley Honor Flight is made possible through generous donations and fundraising efforts. Community events, corporate sponsorships such as ShopRite™, and individual contributions all play a vital role in funding the flights. The support from local businesses and individuals reflects the strong bond between Hudson Valley and its veterans, highlighting the collective commitment to honoring those who served.
Future Endeavors
Hudson Valley Honor Flight continues to grow, expanding its reach and impact. The hub is dedicated to ensuring that all eligible veterans have the opportunity to experience an Honor Flight. Future endeavors include enhancing the flight experience, increasing outreach to veterans who may not be aware of the program, and securing additional funding to support more flights.
Conclusion
Honor Flight, and particularly Hudson Valley Honor Flight, represents a profound expression of gratitude and respect for our nation’s veterans. The program not only honors their service but also provides them with an opportunity to reflect, heal, and connect. As Hudson Valley Honor Flight continues its mission, it serves as a powerful reminder of the debt of gratitude we owe to those who have sacrificed so much. Through these flights, the legacy of our veterans is preserved, ensuring that their contributions are never forgotten.
By Jack C. Collins, Master Sergeant, US Army Retired. A Soldier for Life, Still Serving.
Jack Collins and his daughter Esther Thalassinos
Photo credit: Esther Thalassinos
