WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., welcomed 25 West Virginia veterans to the nation’s capital Wednesday.
The group was visiting Washington for its eighth “Always Free Honor Flight,” which also included stops at Arlington Cemetery and numerous war memorials. The veterans served in wars from World War II to the Vietnam War, as well as stateside.
Five JROTC cadets from southern West Virginia high schools accompanied the group as guardians.
“West Virginia is one of the most patriotic states and these West Virginia Veterans truly embody the Mountain State’s history and contributions to safeguard America’s freedom,” Manchin said as part of a joint release.
“Without the sacrifices made by these brave men and women, we would not enjoy the many freedoms we cherish today,” Capito said. “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.”
The Honor Flight Network, which hosts the “Always Free Honor Flight,” is a nationwide effort to help veterans visit Washington free of costs to see monuments built to recognize American troops. Actor Bob Denver, known for playing Gilligan on “Gilligan’s Island,” founded the non-profit organizations with his wife, Dreama.
Manchin also provided each veteran with a Congressional Record statement recognizing the trip.
“This week, as we celebrate these incredible Veterans and their answering our nation’s call of duty, we must remember that the men and women who have given so much to ensure America’s safety deserve the utmost care and support upon their return home,” the statement stated.
Republican Reps. Alex Mooney and Evan Jenkins also attended the welcoming event.