This past weekend I had the privilege of serving as a Guardian on a Freedom Honor Flight with my Aunt, a U.S. Navy veteran. What I thought would be a meaningful day of support turned into one of the most physically demanding — and most rewarding — experiences of my life.
As Guardians, we are there to make sure our veterans are safe, comfortable, and cared for on a very full day in Washington, D.C. For me, that meant everything from loading and unloading wheelchairs at half a dozen stops, to helping veterans transfer safely into their chairs, to even climbing into the under-bus storage bay (small and fit comes in handy!) to drag out equipment for the other volunteers. Add in the walking — over 10,000 steps around the monuments and memorials — and you get a sense of just how physical the day is.
But here’s the thing: I wouldn’t trade a single second of it. It was quite possibly one of the most important things I've ever been a part of.
This wasn’t just about the work. It was about being witness to the emotion on these veterans’ faces as they saw the memorials built in their honor. It was about the conversations shared between stops, the laughter, the tears, the handshakes and hugs from strangers along the way. It was about giving back in a small way to men and women who have given so much.
If you’re someone who values fitness, service, and community, I can’t recommend this experience enough. The Freedom Honor Flight is always in need of Guardians — and they rely on people who are willing to put in the effort to make the day possible for our veterans.
It will push you. It will inspire you. And it will stay with you forever.
👉 Interested in serving as a Guardian? Apply here: https://www.freedomhonorflight.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/guardianapp-1.pdf
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