WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., and Rep. Evan Jenkins, R-W.Va., welcomed veterans to Washington, D.C. on Wednesday as these people visited the nation’s capital for the annual Always Free Honor Flight.
The Always Free Honor Flight is a nationwide effort which raises funds to help veterans visit Washington, D.C. at no cost to them. This includes stops at Arlington National Cemetery and the multiple war memorials. The state chapter is the result of work by Denver Foundation and Little Buddy Radio, both of which were founded by actor Bob Denver.
Two of the veterans served in World War II, two served in both the Korean War and Vietnam War, 14 people served in the Vietnam War, two individuals served in the Cold War, one person served in the Gulf War and two others served stateside.
“West Virginia is one of the most patriotic states and these West Virginia Veterans embody the Mountain State’s history and contributions made to safeguard America’s liberty,” Manchin said in a joint press release with Capito. “This special honor flight is just one way for us to honor and share our deepest gratitude for their service.”
“As the daughter of a World War II veteran, I always treasure the opportunity to personally thank America’s heroes for their selfless service to our nation, and it was fitting that we could hold today’s event at a memorial that means so much to me and my family,” Capito said. “Today and every day, I am so grateful for their service and will continue working to ensure that our servicemen and women, veterans, and their families are provided with the support and benefits they deserve.”
“Always Free Honor Flight brings West Virginia veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and other operations to our nation’s capital. I look forward to this event every year and the chance to thank these veterans personally for their service,” Jenkins said on Twitter.
