Honor Flight of the Cape Fear Area to take local veterans to Washington, D.C.

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Honor Flight of the Cape Fear Area will transport 82 local veterans to Washington, D.C. on Saturday, April 18 for a day of remembrance, reflection, and honor at national memorials dedicated to their service.

The mission will include World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War-era veterans, all traveling as part of a larger group of 183 participants, including guardians, medical staff, and volunteers. The group will depart from Wilmington International Airport on a chartered American Airlines flight and return the same day after visiting monuments honoring U.S. military service.

Founded in 2020, Honor Flight of the Cape Fear Area is part of the national Honor Flight Network, which provides free flights for veterans to visit memorials in Washington, D.C. The program is open to veterans from those eras, as well as those with life-limiting illnesses.

“As we prepare for this exciting fifth mission to Washington, D.C., we are especially grateful for the community support that has made it possible,” said Flight Leader Patty Miljenovic. “We encourage everyone to join us in welcoming these heroes home.”

The community is invited to attend a Welcome Home Celebration later that evening at the Aero Center Wilmington, where the returning charter aircraft will arrive and veterans will parade through the hangar to a cheering crowd.

Organizers say this is the first time the celebration will be held at the Aero Center Wilmington hangar. Attendees are encouraged to arrive by 7:45 p.m., with the flight expected to land around 8:15 p.m.

Guests may line designated areas outside the hangar as well as nearby roads, and are encouraged to bring signs, banners, and flags to show support. Free parking will be available in designated overflow areas near Wilmington International Airport, and attendees are encouraged to carpool or use ride-share services due to ongoing construction in the area.

More information is available on their website and on social media at @HonorFlightCFA.