Stabenow Honors Michigan Veterans Visiting World War II Memorial in Washington, DC
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow today issued the following statement welcoming 46 Michigan World War II veterans who travelled from Michigan to visit the World War II memorial. The veterans were flown in by Honor Flight Network and sponsored by the Ford Motor Company Fund.
"It is always a great privilege to honor Michigan's brave men and women, who put their lives on the line to protect our country," said Stabenow. "The mission of the Honor Flight Network is a fitting tribute to our veterans, giving them an opportunity to see their memorials firsthand. We owe all of our veterans our unwavering support."
Honor Flight was founded in 2005 by retired U.S. Air Force officer and physician's assistant, Erwin "Earl" Moose, who wanted to honor the veterans he had taken care of while working in a VA health clinic. Earl Moose offered to fly veterans in his own plane-free of charge- to Washington, D.C. to see the World War II Memorial. By the end of 2010, Honor Flight had transported more than 63,000 veterans of World War II, Korea and Vietnam-at no cost for veterans-to see their memorials through partnerships with airlines and private foundations.
The Michigan World War II veterans will begin their day at the World War II memorial and visit the other war memorials on the National Mall as well as Arlington Cemetery. During the day, veterans will be presented with personalized notes from family, friends and students thanking them for their service.
