Q. Who can go on a Greater St. Louis Honor Flight trip?
Veterans are placed on the waiting list on a first-come, first-served basis according to the following priorities: World War II veterans and terminally ill veterans of any conflict, followed by Korean War and then Vietnam War veterans.
Guardians are generally selected by the veterans, and are usually members of the veteran’s family. Every veteran must have a guardian. If the veteran does not have a guardian, we have volunteer guardians who will accompany him/her. Guardians must be between the ages of 18 and 64 years of age, must be able to lift 100 pounds, and be able to walk 5 miles pushing a wheelchair. Spouses of veterans are not eligible to be guardians. Guardians must pay their own way, which is currently $550, and must attend a mandatory training session prior to the flight.
Q. How much does it cost? Who pays for the trip?
The Honor Flight experience comes at no cost to the veterans. All expenses are paid, with the exception of any souvenirs he/she may wish to purchase. Flights are funded by donations from individuals, corporations, foundations and other groups who wish to be an important part of honoring these heroes. Guardians pay their own trip expenses, which is currently $550.
Q. What can I do to help?
Donations are graciously accepted. Click Here to Donate
Volunteers are critical to the success of Greater St. Louis Honor Flight. We simply could not fulfill our mission without the time and talents of a great many good-hearted men and women. Our volunteers assist in a myriad of ways, on flight days and throughout the year. If you’re interested in becoming part of our team, please fill out the Volunteer Application.
Q. What if I require a wheelchair and/or oxygen?
We take a wheelchair for every veteran on every flight, for their use if needed during the trip.
If a veteran requires oxygen, their health care provider must supply a prescription that identifies the delivery method (mask or cannula), frequency (as needed or continuously), and the rate of delivery (liters per minute). Greater St. Louis Honor Flight will provide an FAA approved oxygen concentrator for use on the plane as FAA regulations do not allow oxygen cylinders on board. Oxygen cylinders to be used while in D.C. will be provided. However, veterans are responsible for providing oxygen for use from home to Lambert Airport in the morning and from Lambert to home in the evening.
Q. Who is in charge of the program?
Greater St. Louis Honor Flight is part of the Honor Flight Network whose governing board establishes general protocols, policies and credentialing, maintains a national website and oversees several programs. Greater St. Louis Honor Flight has an independent board composed of many St. Louis-area individuals, many of them business-owners, all dedicated to the success of the mission to bring our World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War veterans to Washington, D.C. for a day of honor.