The Land of Lincoln Honor Flight (LLHF) is set to embark on Mission #67 on June 20th, paying tribute to the service and sacrifices of Illinois veterans. This mission will bring together 5 Korean-era veterans and 86 Vietnam-era veterans from 56 towns across the state.
At 4:00 AM, 91 veterans and 88 Guardians will gather at Springfield Abraham Lincoln Capitol Airport. They will board a chartered Sun Country 737 aircraft bound for Washington, D.C. The itinerary includes visits to significant landmarks such as the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam War memorials, Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknowns, the Lincoln Memorial, the National Air & Space Museum in Chantilly, Virginia, the US Marine Corps Memorial, and the US Air Force Memorial. LLHF is proud to provide this day of honor to veterans at no cost.
Joan Bortolon, LLHF President, expressed gratitude, "Our mission is to show our most senior veterans our gratitude for their service by hosting this day of thanks absolutely free to the veteran. They have paid enough; it is our turn to pay them back."
The veterans and Guardians will return to Springfield airport at 9:30 PM the same day. The public, friends, family, and LLHF alumni veterans are encouraged to gather at the airport to give these heroes the welcome home they deserve. Free parking and shuttle services will be available for guests.
LLHF invites World War II, Korean Era, and Vietnam Era veterans to apply for future flights. Applications can be obtained at www.LandofLincolnHonorFlight.org. LLHF is a non-profit organization that relies on donations and volunteer efforts. With minimal administrative costs, the majority of funds raised directly support flight costs for veterans.