Hailey
For 15 years, the Central Missouri Honor Flight has been helping military veterans visit Washington, D.C. to see national monuments and memorials.
The Columbia-based group has taken thousands of veterans, many of them elderly, to pay respects at places like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.
But now, this special program has reached the end of its journey. On Monday, the group completed its final flight, carrying 77 Vietnam veterans to the nation’s capital. This trip marked the last chapter for Central Missouri Honor Flight.
Why Is The Program Ending?
The decision to shut down was not because of money. In fact, funding became easier over the years as the community strongly supported the cause. The real reason is that fewer veterans were interested in going on these flights.
Vice President and Flight Director Steve Paulsell explained that applications had been slowing for almost two years. He said, “We didn’t want to fade away gradually, so we decided this year would be the right time to end.”
This means that while the mission was important, many veterans had already gone or chose not to participate.
The Final Flight Experience
The last group of 77 Vietnam veterans had the chance to:
- Visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
- Pay tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
- Tour Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia
- See other national monuments dedicated to American military service
For the veterans who joined, the trip was emotional and meaningful. It gave them a chance to reflect, honor their service, and be recognized for their sacrifices.
Funding Was Not The Challenge
When the program first started, raising money was difficult. But with community support, Central Missouri Honor Flight was able to continue for many years. Paulsell made it clear that the decision was not about finances but about interest.
He explained that when volunteers met veterans in public and invited them to join, many replied, “I had my chance already, and I don’t want to go.” This showed that the number of veterans who wanted the experience had declined.
Options For Veterans In Missouri
Even though the Central Missouri branch is closing, veterans in the state still have opportunities to join honor flights. Missouri has five other Honor Flight hubs located in:
- St. Louis
- Kansas City
- Springfield
- Hannibal
- Ste. Genevieve
Paulsell said their website will remain active to help connect interested veterans with these groups.
What Will Happen To Remaining Funds?
The group promised that any unspent funds will not go to waste. The money will be given to other Honor Flight groups, mainly within Missouri, to continue supporting veterans. This ensures that the spirit of the mission will continue even though Central Missouri Honor Flight is ending.
Key Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Central Missouri Honor Flight |
| Years of Service | 15 years |
| Final Flight | 77 Vietnam veterans |
| Reason for Closure | Decline in applications and interest |
| Other Missouri Programs | St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, Hannibal, Ste. Genevieve |
| Remaining Funds | Donated to other Honor Flight groups |
For over 15 years, the Central Missouri Honor Flight gave veterans unforgettable experiences to visit Washington, D.C. and honor their service. While the program is now closing because of reduced participation, its impact will always be remembered.
Veterans who still want to join such a journey can connect with other Missouri groups. The dedication, respect, and love shown through these flights will remain a lasting legacy.
FAQs
Why is Central Missouri Honor Flight shutting down?
It is ending because fewer veterans are applying for trips, not because of money problems.
How many veterans joined the final flight?
A total of 77 Vietnam veterans took part in the last trip to Washington, D.C.
Can Missouri veterans still join Honor Flights?
Yes, there are five other Honor Flight groups in Missouri that continue to organize these trips.