Honor Flight Newsletter (Fall 2025)
“Stunned by the sheer number of volunteers”
I was stunned by the sheer number of volunteers, each trained for a specific job, every one of them pleasant, smiling, and caring. And the coordination with the tour buses, fire departments, food delivery, and so much more – amazing.
”I realized I was holding my resentment too long”
“As someone who had to keep my serving in Vietnam secret so that my mother would not get berating telephone calls from people. Then also hiding my homecoming after that service I was overwhelmed with emotion as a returning Honor Flight Honoree when I saw the Welcome Home Banner in the airport and all the people who came out to thank us.”
Watch your U.S. mailbox for your annual chance to support HFS
We only ask once a year, and the time is here. In early November, look for our annual Year-End Appeal in the U.S. Mail. Your support of Honor Flight Syracuse is greatly appreciated and will help send more of our veterans to Washington.
Korean War veteran recalls how the guns of war fell silent the day the truce was signed
Matt Rizzo of North Syracuse was one of the “messenger boys” that day in 1953.
Three brothers take the Honor Flight together
I was on the Mission 23 trip with my wife, Lee, as my Guardian. It was a day I shall never forget.
Vietnam veteran travels to Washington with his son
At first, Jim Renna resisted taking the Honor Flight. When he finally agreed to go, he shared Mission 23 with his son, also a veteran. Renna also brought along memories of his dad, who served in World War Two.
Couples who serve together, stay together
Mission 23 included 3 married couples who both served our country…and made the Honor Flight together in September.
She was one of just 3 women in a unit of 93
Coast Guard veteran Diane Avery talks about her service in Desert Storm and beyond.
The next generation offers gratitude, in writing
Honor Flight Syracuse missions always include something that’s been near and dear to anyone in the service…especially those who were stationed far from home: Mail Call.
Two HFS World War II veterans honored by American Legion
A four-hour marathon session kicked off the 107th Annual Convention of the NYS American Legion on Thursday, July 17 at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown, formerly the Hotel Syracuse.
Thank you, Martin’s Point!
Honor Flight Syracuse is grateful for a recent $5,000 donation from Martin’s Point. Assemblyman Bill Magnarelli was on hand for the check presentation, along with the great folks from Martin’s Point. This not-for-profit health care organization provides the greater Syracuse region with US Family Health Plan [TRICARE Prime] insurance plans for eligible military retirees, their families, and certain active-duty family members.
HFS President to lead annual Veterans Parade
When you head to the State Fairgrounds for the annual Veterans Parade and Expo on Saturday, November 8, look for HFS President Kevin Bradley at the head of the Parade! Kevin is the Grand Marshal of this year’s parade. It begins at noon. Congratulations Kevin!