PIE To Host Welcome Home Event For 43rd Honor Flight Tuesday

CLEARWATER, FL — On Tuesday, April 25, 68 veterans will depart St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport on an Allegiant charter for a day-long visit to Washington, D.C., and the war memorials as part of Honor Flight of West Central Florida's 43rd Honor Flight.

The veterans will return to PIE around 8:15 p.m. where they will be greeted with a Welcome Home Celebration by military and veterans groups, government leaders, friends and family, and any members of the public who want to pay tribute to the veterans.

“Honor Flight of West Central Florida kicks off its 2023 season with Mission 43 on Tuesday, April 25. We are honored to transport our heroes at no charge to Washington, D.C., to visit and reflect on their memorials," said Honor Flight of West Central Florida President Tracy Luchtenberg.

"We appreciate the partnership with Allegiant for the safe transportation of our treasured veterans. A special thank you to the staff at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport for your graciousness in making the welcome home a wonderful celebration," Luchtenberg said.

Honor Flight of West Central Florida Inc. was established as a regional hub of the Honor Flight Network in October 2010. Its mission is to recognize American veterans for their sacrifice and service by flying them free of charge to Washington, D.C., to visit and reflect at the memorials dedicated in their honor.

Among the veterans who will be taking the 43rd Honor Flight are 104-year-old World War II Army veteran Herbert Bennett, 100-year-old World War II Buffalo Soldier (Army) Roy Caldwood and 94-year-old World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War Navy and Air Force veteran Robinson Rummell.

The veterans will be accompanied by 76 volunteer guardians.

Those attending are encouraged to wear patriotic clothes and accessories and join in on giving the veterans an uplifting homecoming, Lucktenberg added.

“We are pleased to host the Honor Flights at PIE, so our community can come to honor our veterans," said PIE Director Tom Jewsbury. "Please join us for this celebration to thank and welcome our veterans home to PIE and continue their day of honor.”

Free parking will be available in the short-term or long-term parking garages for guests wishing to attend the welcome home event.

Be aware that there is construction on roadways around the airport. Guests should allow ample travel time and take extra caution.

The veteran application for future Honor Flights is available here. Priority is given to World War II, Korean and terminally ill veterans. The 44th flight will take place June 13.

Email info@honorflightwcf.org www.honorflightwcf.org or call 727-498-6079.