PEORIA, Ill. – A COVID-19-forced break for the Greater Peoria Honor Flight ends Thursday.
That’s when 76 war veterans will get on a plane and spend the day in Washington, D.C. — the first of four trips to be made this year.
Organizer Phyllis Piraino tells WMBD’s The Greg and Dan Show you’re still needed to show your support Thursday at Peoria International Airport.
“It is crucial we get the airport packed with patriotism,” said Piraino. “There will be shuttle buses from the CEFCU parking lot that will bring all the people in to the airport and bring you back to your cars. We usually have two- to three-thousand people there.”
And Piraino says that’s for both when veterans start arriving after 4:00 a.m. and when the flight returns around 9:30 p.m.
She says the flights are important so, in many cases, veterans can finally start sharing their war stories.
“A lot of new friendships will be formed,” said Piraino. “Some will realize that they may have served near each other.”
CLICK HERE to find more information, including how to donate to Greater Peoria Honor Flight.
