Freedom Honor Flight announces new president, Fourth of July fundraiser and fall flight details

Now in its 10th year, La Crosse-based Freedom Honor Flight continues its mission to fly veterans to Washington D.C. in order to see the memorials and monuments erected in their honor. To date, more than 2,000 area veterans have made the flight.

Because the flights are supported entirely through donations, fundraising is an important part of the effort. Between now and July 8, Freedom Honor Flight sponsor Festival Foods is selling icons for $1 and $5, with all proceeds from the sale supporting the flights. In addition, volunteers will be staffing Festival Foods Brat Barns in Holmen, La Crosse, Onalaska and Tomah on Saturday, June 30, to raise funds.

The next flight is scheduled for September 15, and veterans who have been selected for the flight will be notified the week of July 9. Anyone who has served in the U.S. military at any time can apply for a flight. Priority is given to World War II veterans, Korean-era veterans and Vietnam-era veterans. There are currently three WWII, 24 Korean era and 505 Vietnam era veterans on the waiting list.

The organization’s new president, Dave Larsen, commented “It’s very gratifying to see the success of Freedom Honor Flight in giving veterans this honor, and especially so considering it wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partners and the individuals who donate to the cause.”