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COLUMBUS, Ohio —Honor Flight Cleveland has launched a new initiative to help veterans build social connections through regional memorial visits.
The pilot program brought veterans by bus from Cleveland to Columbus for visits to the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and the Ohio Statehouse, offering an option for those unable to travel to Washington, D.C.
Retired Sgt. Robert Piatak of American Legion Post 572 said the trip offered an important space for shared experience. “We had some bad days and like to forget it, but you also like to talk about it.” Piatak said.“It’s a brotherhood and a sisterhood. So even though someone served in the Army I served, we can joke around with each other.”
Piatak emphasized that recognition, rather than praise, remains significant for many veterans. “It’s not that we want to be thanked all the time, but just recognized.”
Honor Flight Cleveland Vice President Bill Synk said the pilot trip was developed to reach veterans who experience isolation or have limited ability to travel longer distances. He said the outings are intended to be therapeutic, giving participants opportunities to share experiences that can lead to new friendships.
Synk said the positive response to the program calls for more opportunities. Honor Flight Cleveland plans to offer four additional regional bus trips in 2026, continuing to bring veterans to Columbus for museum and Statehouse visits.
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Saima Khan
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