Free Honor Flights Take Veterans To Washington War Memorials

By Rick Wells, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Many World War II, Korea, and even Vietnam War veterans would like to go to Washington to visit the memorial dedicated to honor their service but don't have the means to get there.      

A local group of retired aero space workers has organized an effort to help get veterans signed up for free flights provided by the Honor Flight Network.

It's a way of getting these veterans one more tour, with honor.

There is a weekly meeting of a group of World War II veterans at Kirk of the Hills Presbyterian Church. The veterans have visited civic clubs, churches and schools people they realized that people – especially kids – weren't hearing about World War II anymore.

Part of the reason, they acknowledge is that veterans like themselves weren't talking about it. That was 15 years ago, and even though their numbers are dwindling, they are still talking to anyone who'll listen.

"I'm just trying to honor the veterans of World War Two," Don Falletti said.

One of those who have heard the message loud and clear is Don Falletti, the president of local McDonnell Douglas retirees. Falletti has undertaken a campaign to get as many veterans as he can signed up for free Honor Flights to DC to visit the World War II memorial.

Gerry Daley took one a while back.

His hat carries the badges that mark his service. He said his honor flight was a terrific opportunity to see the Memorial something he might never have been able to do otherwise.

For his part Don Falletti is trying to get the word out, that the flights are available, and how to get on the list.

He uses events like a recent one at the Circle Cinema on Wednesday, and he's organized some fellow retirees to help the veterans fill out the necessary paperwork to get on the list.

"It's really something they deserve," he said. And it's something their service has earned them.

The Honor Flight sign up is at the Transport Workers Union hall located at Pine and Memorial Thursday between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.