“Time is of the essence…that’s our slogan” said Walter Kollet, Chairman of Honor Flight Myrtle Beach. He repeats this phrase when asked about Honor Flight. “We lose more than 1,000 WWII veterans each day in the U.S. Many will never see their WWII Memorial. Here in Myrtle Beach there’s one last chance with Honor Flight on April 16th”.
Honor Flight is a non-profit organization with “hubs” located throughout the U.S. Their mission is to provide no cost trips to Washington, D.C. for WWII veterans. While in D.C. the veterans are escorted to the WWII memorial located on the National Mall, often referred to as the Jewel of the Mall.
“We’ve organized 6 flights since 2010” said Kollet. “517 WWII veterans flew with us on those 6 flights. April will be our 7th and final flight from Myrtle Beach. It has been a privilege for me and our dedicated volunteers”.
The Myrtle Beach departure will be on a chartered jet carrying 150 passengers. Among those will be a volunteer medical team for the veterans’ safety. In addition, many guardian sponsors accompany the veterans on the flight. “Guardians are crucial to the program” said Kollet.  “They make a donation to fly with the veterans and look after their needs. We take dozens of wheelchairs so veterans can get around the sites with comfort. The guardians assist the veterans and together they enjoy a memorable day” he added.
The day’s itinerary is a busy one. The flight will leave Myrtle Beach International shortly after sunrise on April 16th. There will be a 2 hour tour of the WWII memorial along with visits to the Korean, Vietnam and Iwo Jima (Marine) memorials. The day in D.C. will conclude at Arlington National Cemetery for the “Changing of the Guard” ceremony.
The flight is due back in Myrtle Beach just before sundown. Previous flights have returned to many hundreds of Grand Stranders waiting with cheers of appreciation for the veterans.
Bert Cassels founded the Myrtle Beach chapter of Honor Flight in early 2010. “The WWII memorial was 60 long years in the making. It was dedicated in 2004 and it’s magnificent. Now we are against the clock” said Cassels. “Most WWII veterans can’t get there on their own. They deserve this trip. They have earned this trip. Please help us locate them” Cassels urged.
Kollet went on to say how difficult it has become to find WWII veterans who are both willing and physically able to make the trip. He explained that Honor Flight has support systems in place, but many veterans dismiss the chance due to failing health. “Time is of the essence. There, I said it again…and we will do all within our power to help a veteran get on that plane to see their memorial…we have one more chance” said Kollet.
The cost of each Honor Flight is $60,000 and is paid for entirely by donations and fundraising events. Honor Flight Myrtle Beach is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. “We want to fill this plane for our final flight. Everyone knows a WWII veteran. Please put us together. Also those interested in being a guardian sponsor should contact us right away” added Kollet.
Honor Flight organizers can be reached at (843)957-8212 or visit their web site at www.HonorFlightMyrtleBeach.com for information, flight applications or to make a secure   on-line donation.