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MANCHESTER, NH – Members First Credit Union employees take casual day seriously. Each Friday, they give $5 to dress down in jeans and other casual attire to support local charities. Members First recently donated $650 from the Casual Friday Fund to Honor Flight New England, a non-profit organization based in Hooksett.
Founded in 2009 by Joe Byron, a Vietnam-era veteran and a retired Manchester police officer, Honor Flight New England makes it possible for America’s most senior veterans to travel to Washington, D.C., and visit monuments honoring their branches of service and the wars in which they served. The trips include round-trip air transportation, ground transportation, guided tours, accommodations and meals – all at no cost to the veterans. Top priority is currently given to veterans of World War II and the Korean War, as well as those who are terminally ill from any war.
“The Honor Flight is a deeply meaningful and moving experience for the veterans who participate,” said Byron. “For many, the trip provides closure. Traveling with fellow veterans gives them the opportunity to reflect on their service and speak about their experiences with people who truly understand – their comrades. Some have described it as one of the best days of their lives.”
The $650 donation from the Members First Casual Friday Fund will provide commemorative jackets for 16 veterans and more than 30 meals on the upcoming Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C., in May.
“Supporting our community and honoring those who serve it are key components of the credit union’s mission,” said Terry Wiegelman, vice president of marketing at Members First Credit Union. “We applaud long-time credit union member, Joe Byron, and Honor Flight New England’s dedication to the men and women who served our country and are deeply honored to help support this mission.”
Now in its tenth year, Honor Flight New England has made it possible for more than 1,900 veterans to travel to Washington, D.C. with their peers. Honor Flight New England’s next trip is scheduled in May and will carry 44 veterans and 44 guardians.
Honor Flight New England is a non-profit organization and does not receive government funding. Honor Flights are made possible through generous donations from private citizens and businesses that recognize the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. Veterans of World War II and Korea and those who have a terminal illness and wish to participate in an Honor Flight may call 603-518-5368 or visit www.honorflightnewengland.org for information and to apply.
