FORT PIERCE — The Indian River State College Foundation, on behalf of Indian River State College, completed its mission to honor 12 local veterans with a memorable trip to Washington, D.C., as part of Southeast Honor Flight Mission #55. The initiative, spearheaded by the Foundation, provided veterans with the opportunity to visit the nation’s most sacred military memorials.

The group of distinguished veterans, including three World War II veterans with the oldest being 102 years old, along with Korean and Vietnam War veterans, spent the day visiting Arlington National Cemetery, the World War II Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, and the U.S. Air Force Memorial. College and Foundation employees traveled alongside the veterans, providing support and companionship as they visited their memorials.

“Supporting our veterans through this Honor Flight mission represents the very best of what our college community stands for,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, President of Indian River State College. “These brave men and women sacrificed so much for our freedom, and Indian River State College, through the Indian River State College Foundation, is proud to have facilitated this meaningful experience. It was a great honor for us to escort these veterans, who have given so much to our country, to their memorials—a small token of our immense gratitude for their service.”

The day concluded with an emotional homecoming celebration at Palm Beach International Airport, where the veterans were welcomed back by family members, College representatives, and community supporters. The welcome home ceremony provided touching moments as veterans reunited with loved ones and were thanked for their service.

“This is the welcome you always dream of when serving your country,” said U.S. Navy veteran and Vero Beach resident Dean Paulcheck. “Seeing the memorials and monuments was heartwarming, and there was nothing better than being able to honor our fallen brothers.”

“This Honor Flight mission exemplifies the Foundation’s commitment to giving back to those who have sacrificed for our freedoms,” said Annabel Robertson, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Indian River State College Foundation Executive Director. “Witnessing the profound impact this experience had on our veterans reminded us why supporting our military community is such a vital part of our mission.”

The Indian River State College Foundation’s participation in this Honor Flight mission aligns with the College’s commitment to veteran support through its Veterans Center for Excellence. As a Gold Status Military Friendly School and 2024 Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus, Indian River State College continues to demonstrate its dedication to serving those who have served our country.

Southeast Honor Flight Mission #55 exemplified the organization’s ongoing commitment to honoring America’s veterans by providing them with the opportunity to visit memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice in the nation’s capital.