Once you are chosen to go on a Tour of Honor
Why do I need a guardian? I’m in good physical health and can take care of myself.
- We are a part of Honor Flight Network that sets this policy. Their policy is that every veteran is accompanied by a guardian. If a veteran is in good physical health, one guardian may be assigned more than one veteran. Guardians’ have many responsibilities, both to the veteran and to the group as a whole. The limited number Honor Flight volunteers on each trip need help with activities and rely on guardians to do them. The veterans are there to enjoy their trip, not take on these tasks. In addition the guardians are responsible keeping track of time, where the activities and memorials are for their veterans so the veterans don’t have to worry about these things.
Once I am assigned to a flight can I extend my stay or fly to somewhere else from Washington DC?
- No. All veterans leave from and return with Honor Flight as a group.
When will I get specific information about the trip?
- Once you are chosen to go on a trip you will receive a letter from us outlining the process. A couple of weeks before the trip there will be a mandatory Pre-Flight event for the veterans and their guardians where details will be given.
What if I am unable to go on that trip?
- Your name will be put back on the wait list and will be contacted for a future trip.
Will there be someone to help me on the trip?
- Yes, at this time each veteran is assigned a guardian who will be with you for the entire trip. If a family member would like to go as your guardian, we strongly encourage it. If no family member can be your guardian, we have volunteers who can do this at no cost to you. Spouses and significant others are not eligible to be your guardian. Exceptions for this can be made if there is a medical necessity that can only be filled by a spouse or significant other. Contact chair@honorflightccc.org for information on the approval process.
Can members of my family other than my guardian come too?
- No. We have limited space.
What is the general schedule of the trip?
- In general it is a three day trip. You are responsible for getting to the airport, usually for an early morning flight. We arrive in Washington DC area in the late afternoon. The next two days are spent visiting war memorials and other sites of interest via bus. At the end of the third day we fly home, usually arriving in the evening. Someone will need to pick you up at the airport after the return flight.
Will I have my own room or be sharing? If so, with whom?
- All rooms have double queen beds. You will most likely be staying with your guardian, unless your guardian is not a family member and is of the opposite gender. If you are not sharing with your guardian you will be sharing with another veteran.
What costs are covered by Honor Flight and what do I need to pay for?
- All your costs are covered by Honor Flight. You only will need to pay for any souvenirs that you want to purchase.
Will there be a lot of walking?
- The Tour of Honor is designed to accommodate you; we make it as easy for you as possible. We have a transport chair available for veterans who need them.
What will I need to pack?
- Pack light. You won’t check any bags for the flight. You will be given a flight bag with two t-shirts and a jacket for the trip. You will be able to bring the flight bag and one additional carry-on bag if needed. You will be given written instructions concerning packing before you leave.
What if I have special dietary or room accommodation needs?
- Please let us know when you are scheduled for a flight so we can make the necessary accommodations.
What if I have special medical needs?
- Please let us know when you are scheduled for a flight so we can make the necessary accommodations. Each trip will be accompanied by medical personnel.
What if I need a walker, cane, wheelchair, or oxygen?
- Please let us know when you are scheduled for a flight so we can make the necessary accommodations.
Links to other FAQs
