Leaders of the non-profit Old Glory Honor Flight announced that the organization rebranded to Missions of Honor as the organization has evolved to continue serving veterans through a variety of special flights and events that have fallen outside the Honor Flight parameters.
“The change reflects the changing needs of our veterans,” said Chris Berkers, board president of Missions of Honor. “It allows us to support special missions, Gold Star Families, Missions Medical Corps, home visits, and more — all with shared leadership, resources, and volunteer power.”
Missions of Honor will be the umbrella organization for the Old Glory Honor Flight and will continue to do the important work already offered, but it will encompass additional flights and events in the future allowing more veterans to partake in services.
Old Glory Honor Flight was founded in 2009 by Appleton-based volunteers who wanted to honor local veterans by offering them a day-long trip to our nation’s capitol to see the memorials built in their honor. The organization provides transportation, tour, escorts, a medical team, professional photographers and plans the itinerary in Washington D.C. The day ends with family members and the community participating in a welcome home celebration at the Appleton airport. All of this at no cost to the veteran.
Since its inception, the organization has honored more than 7,000 veterans. Organizers say the move is not about changing the organization, but about amplifying the experiences it offers and expanding the reach to include more veterans.
“We want to ensure that every veteran experiences honor, connection, and healing no matter when they served our country,” Berkers said.
Currently the organization hosts flights for service members from several conflicts. Old Glory Honor Flight honors veterans who served anytime, anywhere in any branch of service prior to May 1975. Veterans who wish to go on these flights should apply at this link.
Freedom to Liberty: A Mission of Healing retreat honors veterans of the Global War on Terrorism. The retreat honors veterans that served in Iraq, Afghanistan or elsewhere in the Middle East in combat or in direct support of the combat activities. Veterans will be honored with a no-cost trip to New York City to visit the 911 Memorial and Museum, the “Freedom Tower” and the Statue of Liberty. Veterans who wish to attend these flights should apply online.
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