The Upper Peninsula Honor Flight did magnificent work in conducting an Honorary Honor Flight two weeks ago.

In five missions thus far, U.P. Honor Flight has taken more than 400 World War II veterans from the U.P. to the memorial in their honor in Washington, D.C.

Two more missions are planned for 2014, to take WWII veterans along with men and women who served during the Korean Conflict.

But there is a contingent of veterans who for health reasons cannot make the trip to the nation’s capital.

So Honor Flight brought the World War II Memorial to them.

With patriotic music and enthusiastic cheering, 69 veterans residing at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans were saluted during the Honorary Honor Flight.

The assembled vets watched a video about the memorial and were given shirts, hats, backpacks and other memorabilia just like those who have made the Honor Flight journey.

Each veteran had his or her photo taken as part of being honored by the flight’s organizers and others in the community.

When this country needed them the most, these brave women and men stepped in harm’s way. They were so very young when they answered America’s call, something they did without fanfare or discussion.

These veterans are authentic American heroes and it is wonderful the Honor Flight crew worked with the incredible staff at Jacobetti to make this event a reality.

Thanks to everyone who made this salute so very special.

U.P. Honor Flight will take off May 14 for Mission VI, with Mission VII planned Sept. 4. Fundraising will continue as Honor Flight brings these veterans to Washington at absolutely no charge to them.

Those who are able to help fund this amazing program can send donations to: Upper Peninsula Honor Flight, c/o Community Foundation of the Upper Peninsula, 2420 1st Avenue, South, Suite 101, Escanaba, MI 49829.

On the T-shirts worn by U.P. Honor Flight volunteers, it states “It’s Never Too Late to Say Thank You.” We could not agree more.

Thank you to each and every veteran out there, as well as to all those who are in active duty today. Your sacrifices for this country are appreciated.