Local Vietnam Veterans who took part in recent missions of the Honor Flight of the Appalachian Highlands were recognized at the September 23 Washington County Tenn. Commission meeting with a proclamation from Mayor Joe Grandy and the County Commission.
The proclamation, recognizing Honor Flight Week in October, stated that “Time and time again, the United States has called upon brave individuals to defend our freedoms around the world. In times of great danger, the men and women of the armed forces have stood resolute, putting their lives at risk when we needed them most. In making these sacrifices, they ask for nothing in return.”
The proclamation recognized Honor Flight, established in 2005, as a way to honor our nation’s finest citizens, and to “give a little back to those who already gave so much.” Honor Flight of the Appalachian Highlands (HFAH) was formed in September 2021, following the closure of the previous Honor Flight organization in our area. HFAH has completed nine trips to Washington D.C. building healing, comradery, closure, and respect for those who have served. Over 220 Veterans have been on HFAH trips in two years. HFAH trips include stops at the D-Day and other war Memorials, VMI, and a tour of Washington D.C.
Sarah Rabb, a volunteer board member and treasurer of Honor Flight of the Appalachians, said the next mission will leave Boones Creek Christian Church October 11 at 8:30 AM with 21 veterans and return on October 13. She said all three men, who were recognized with a standing ovation from the County Commission Monday, have taken part in the “trip of a lifetime with Honor” which allows them to get closure and heal.
“Honor is our motto because it is our honor to serve those who have served,” Rabb said. “These trips are changing hearts and minds one trip at a time.”
Rabb said the bus will leave from Boones Creek Christian Church at 8:30 AM Oct. 11 and return home Sunday, Oct. 13 at 5 PM. Members of the community are encouraged to send the veterans off and welcome them back by waving flags and providing the hero’s honor they deserve.
For additional information on the mission please contact Sarah Rabb at 423-791-0077.
Pictured are Veterans Allen Rogers, Walter Pickering III and Thomas Puckett.