20 North Country veterans make Mission 20 a family affair. Read how the American Legion and Auxiliary made it such a special day for these veterans, in this story provided by Special Projects Chair Dianne Mosher of Auxiliary Unit 832, Cape Vincent.
JOHN C. LONDRAVILLE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY UNIT 832, CAPE VINCENT, SENDS 20 VETERANS ON HONOR FLIGHT SYRACUSE MISSION 20
The Auxiliary has been fundraising for the past several years in order to sponsor the group and cover the transportation and overnight expenses and commemorative gifts to our veterans. This is the third and largest group of veterans the Auxiliary has sponsored over the past twelve years for an Honor Flight.
The local veterans who participated in Mission 20 were Larry Andre, Gerald Armani, Scott Aubertine, Andy Binsley, Joe Chavoustie, David Docteur, Robert Docteur, Bob Ewing, Brian Hartmuller, Francis Jewels, Lynn Jinks, Charles Kingsley, Don LaFlame, Jim Mason, Chuck Mosher, Ron Murray, Don Perkins, Les Phillipson, Mike Townsend, and Charles Vogt. On a sad note, Paul Docteur, who was supposed to be on Mission 20 with his two brothers, became very ill two days before the flight and died shortly after the Mission.
A bon voyage celebration was held at Post 832, Cape Vincent, prior to their departure.
The Legion organizations presented the veterans with commemorative gifts: overnight bags which also contained small travel gifts; embroidered Mission 20 jackets and polo shirts, a Mission 20 cap, and a handmade patriotic quilt on behalf of the Quilting Chix group and the Auxiliary.
They received a flag salute by members of Jefferson County Legion and Auxiliary members. The Cape Vincent and Clayton Fire Departments collaborated to provide a ladder truck flag salute as their luxury chartered coach bus left Cape Vincent escorted by the New York State Police and the Post 832 American Legion Riders. Upon arrival at the Embassy Suites Destiny Hotel in Syracuse, they were greeted by Honor Flight staff and volunteers.
Auxiliary Unit 832 would like to thank the American Legion Family, the many volunteers and donors, Hale Transportation, the Town and Village of Cape Vincent, the Cape Vincent and Clayton Fire Departments, the New York State Police, and especially Honor Flight Syracuse, all who made this a wonderful experience for our veterans. Many of them commented that they were overwhelmed by emotion with the reception and respect they received. Comments of “unbelievable,” “incredible,” and “unforgettable” were expressed and tears were frequently observed. Congratulations to all on a successful mission!
