Honor Flight Mission 147: Veterans United in a Day of Remembrance

On November 6, 2025, 78 veterans departed from John Glenn Columbus International Airport for a journey of remembrance and recognition. Sponsored by Battelle, Honor Flight Columbus Mission 147 honored veterans who served in the Korean War, Vietnam War, and Persian Gulf and post-9/11 conflicts—representing decades of dedication and sacrifice.

The day began with a flight to Washington, D.C., where the group was greeted with spontaneous applause from fellow travelers. The warm welcome set the tone for a day filled with reflection, connection, and gratitude.

The first stop was the Air Force Memorial, where veterans gathered beneath the soaring spires overlooking the Pentagon. Conversations flowed easily—some lighthearted, others deeply personal—as veterans shared stories and reflected on their service.

At Arlington National Cemetery, the group witnessed the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The solemn ceremony offered a moment of reverence and reflection. Many visited the final resting places of American icons, honoring their legacy and remembering those who served alongside them. “Any veteran who is considering going, I would suggest they take full advantage of it,” said Marine Corps veteran David Allen. “It's quite and experience thus far.”

Vietnam War Veteran Robert Ransom stands with Korean War Veteran Jerry Hawkins at the U.S. Navy Memorial with the Lone Sailor statute

Lunch was served at the U.S. Navy Memorial, where veterans enjoyed a meal and camaraderie beneath the gaze of the Lone Sailor statue. The group then visited the World War II Memorial for a group photo and flag presentation before walking the Reflecting Pool paths to the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Three Soldiers statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, and finally the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

A veteran and his Honor Flight Guardian search for a friend's name on the Vietnam War Memorial

At the Wall, veterans paused to trace the names of fallen comrades. One by one, people thanked the veterans, some with tears in their eyes, accepted with humility. “When we came home, we were not appreciated,” said Vietnam veteran Gordon Rachel. “This gave me a lot of closure and it touched my heart.”

The group continued to the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, where the iconic Iwo Jima statue stood illuminated in the fading light. “It means so much to me and others to spend the day in Washington, D.C., seeing the monuments, and be honored in this way,” said Marine Corps veteran Wayne Eaton. “I am humbled.”

Dinner was served at the Military Women’s Memorial, catered by Mission BBQ. Honor Flight Columbus Executive Director Beth Johnson presented special recognitions to women veterans honoring their service and leadership. “I would love to tell Battelle, that it is amazing that they sponsored us today,” said U.S. Air Force veteran Teresa Collins. “It is just such a delight and an honor to come here and be here with everyone.”

As the day ended, the veterans returned to Dulles International Airport for their flight home. Onboard, they shared photos and stories, unaware of the surprise awaiting them in Columbus.

U.S. Navy veteran Duane Dailey with friends and family during the return home from Honor Flight 147

Upon arrival, more than 1,000 friends, family members, and supporters welcomed them home. A tunnel of applause, cheers, honor guards, and bagpipes greeted the veterans as they stepped into the terminal. Signs waved, hands reached out, and tears flowed freely.

Honor Flight 147 was more than a trip—it was a day of healing, connection, and long-overdue recognition. Battelle is proud to support this mission and honor those who’ve served across generations.