Support of our Clinton County veterans continues as the local Rotary Clubs are still seeking funds to send 75 Clinton County veterans on the Oct. 1 Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.

Fred Ertel, a member of the Rotary Honor Flight Committee, said in a statement that 25 sponsorships have been secured or committed in the first two weeks of the fundraising campaign. The committee members are continuing to call and canvas local businesses, families, and service organizations in their efforts to obtain the rest of the sponsorships. If a family, business or organization would like to sponsor a veteran in honor of a loved one, this could be a nice way to thank or commemorate a special person.

Another aspect of the Honor Flight experience is the opportunity to serve as a “Guardian.” Guardians are individuals that pay $375 to accompany a veteran on the trip to Washington, D.C. to assist with any physical needs the veteran may have, and to ensure that the experience for the veteran is as safe and enjoyable as possible. Applications to be a Guardian are available online at honorflightdayton.org, at the Clinton County Veterans Services office at 43 S. Walnut St. in Wilmington, at the VFW, or by contacting Jack Powell at 937-655-7173.

Those wishing to support the Clinton County Honor Flight for local veterans are encouraged to contribute toward this once-in-a lifetime event. Donations should be made out to Honor Flight Dayton and mailed to Jack Powell, 3435 Airborne Road, Suite B, Wilmington, OH 45177.

There are still seats available on the flight for Clinton County’s World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War veterans. Eligible veterans may obtain an application or information by contacting Richard James at [email protected], 937-382-7871, or Paul Butler at [email protected], 937-283-5995.