Guardians play vital role in Honor Flight program that takes veterans to D.C.

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — A few times a year, veterans from across Tampa Bay get the chance to fly to Washington D.C. to see veteran memorials in our capital.

Organized by the local nonprofit Honor Flights of West Central Florida, 75 veterans along with 75 guardians go on each trip.

Tracy Luchtenberg, Honor Flight president of the board, said without the guardians, these day trips would look very different.

“This is a very emotional day for many of our veterans,” she said. “The guardians offer a valuable support system.” 

Guardian and veteran Stephan Gonzalez met veteran Peter Perron for the first time just a few days before the trip.

Organizers say only around 20% of the guardians and veterans know each other before the trip.

“I’m looking forward to seeing his reaction when he gets to the monuments,” Gonzalez said.

All the guardians are volunteers, and organizers said more are always needed.

Another group of veterans and guardians are going to Washington, D.C. on Oct. 22, with around 30 guardians still needed for the flight.