Two local veterans, who have personally taken part in the Brushy Creek Honor Flights to Washington, D.C., say this is an experience they will never forget. Jerome Henkenius served during the Korean War, and says his trip was well organized, and a very busy one.
Cyril Venner was assigned to a post in Germany during his time in the service, and believes that the Honor Flight experience should be made available to all eligible veterans.
Henkenius says that in the winter of 2013/14, when they contacted the Brushy Creek Honor Flight organizers about including area veterans, they were told that Carroll County had not been providing funds for veterans to go on the flights.
Since then, fundraisers have been held by American Legion Posts across the county to support those veterans who have not yet been able to experience the honor flight. Venner and Henkenius are helping with just one such event this Saturday at the American Legion Hall in Arcadia. The evening starts with a hamburger dinner at 6 p.m. and a flag raising followed by a dance featuring Henry and the Haymakers, which is led by one of the Arcadia Legion members. And as they raise money to help fund the trips, Henkenius outlines the eligibility criteria and next steps for veterans interested in going on one of the upcoming flights.
The 143-member post is hoping to raise as much money as possible Saturday. A free-will donation is requested for the dinner and entertainment. The next Brushy Creek Honor Flight is scheduled for Sept. 21 of this year.
