Close to 150 Veterans (WWII (yes, we have WWII vets), Korean and Vietnam) will travel to Washington, D.C., with Honor Flight Philadelphia on Saturday, September 19, 2026, for a special Day of Honor — and when they return, the community will have the opportunity to give some something many never received more than 50 years ago: A true Welcome Home. “We cannot change the way many of our Vietnam Veterans were treated when they came home more than 50 years ago, but together we can make sure they know today how much they are loved, respected and appreciated,” organizers said. AND remind the older veteran generation that we still admire their sacrifice and commitment which was over 60 70 years ago!
Honor Flight Philadelphia hopes hundreds of people will be waiting with American flags, cheers, handshakes and hugs. The public is invited to arrive beginning at 4:30 PM for food, music, games, face painting and family activities before gathering to welcome the veterans home. Miss Teen Pennsylvania Anna Rinnier will be in attendance along with horses from Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines.
Honor Flight Philadelphia is especially encouraging families, children, veterans, first responders, motorcycle riders, Scouts and community organizations to attend. Bring an American flag. Bring your children.
Shake a veteran’s hand. Give them a hug. Most importantly, help us finally say the words they deserved to hear decades ago: WELCOME HOME.