FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
#1: Can my spouse/significant other go with me?
A: Unfortunately no. We have an ever-growing number of eligible veterans on our waiting list. It is doubtful that we will get to every deserving veteran in time. The only spouses/significant others permitted to go are those who are veterans themselves.
We simply do not have the resources, funding, or seating available to transport all the veterans who are presently on our waiting list plus spouses/significant others.
#2: Can my son, daughter, grandchild etc. go as a guardian?
A: Yes, we believe the experience, for both the veteran and guardian, are more meaningful if shared with a non-spouse family member. If the veteran does not have a family member available who qualifies as a guardian, a volunteer guardian will be provided by South Willamette Valley Honor Flight. All guardians, whether family member or volunteer must meet the requirements of our Guardian Policy (noted below).
South Willamette Valley Honor Flight Guardian Policy: Guardians and volunteers must be between the ages of 18 and 70 years of age, and have the health, mental, and physical abilities to perform all of the duties of their position on an Honor Flight.
Guardians and volunteers will be provided a copy of the GUARDIAN/VOLUNTEER INFORMATION & RESPONSIBILITIES, and must attend a Guardian/Volunteer Training class prior to going on an Honor Flight. Exceptions to these requirements will be made on an individual basis dependent upon the needs of the veteran and will be at the discretion of the Executive Director or Flight Leader for that specific Honor Flight.
All guardians, family member or volunteer, will make a donation to South Willamette Valley Honor Flight to cover their expenses. We will have volunteer guardians to assist all veterans with whatever needs they may have.
Our TOP priority is the safe travel of ALL the veterans. Who will or will not serve as a guardian, and how many guardians will be needed, is the
sole responsibility of the Executive Director. That decision is based upon many factors, such as physical and medical requirements required by
the veterans.
#3: What is the Real ID program? Does Oregon participate in the REAL ID program? When is the real ID program effective in Oregon??
A: The Real ID program is a federally mandated system of identification of individuals who want to fly or be allowed access to federal buildings. Effective May 3, 2023 you will have to have a Real ID card or a Passport to be able to go on a Flight. For more information on Real ID access the following links: https://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/DMV/Pages/Real_ID.aspx or https://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/Forms/DMV/7476.pdf
#4: Which guardian applicants are most qualified?
A: Before each Flight we identify the needs of the veterans going and then select guardians who will meet those needs. After those needs are met all other applicants are considered.
#5: I am a veteran. How much does it cost? How much money do I need to bring?
A: There is no cost, the Honor Flight is FREE for each eligible veteran. You do not need to bring any money, unless you intend to purchase souvenirs.
#6: Is there a fee for the guardian? Is it tax-deductible?
A: There is a donation for the guardian to make for this 5-day trip with the veterans. At the present time that amount is $1,200 per person. This amount should be tax-deductible, however we encourage you to talk to your tax expert for the specifics.
#7: Can I make a donation to Honor Flight?
A: South Willamette Valley Honor Flight gratefully accepts donations from anyone EXCEPT eligible veterans who have NOT YET been on their Honor Flight. We believe our veterans have given enough. This is our way of saying THANK YOU. After a veteran has made their Honor Flight, if they choose to pay it forward so another deserving veterans can go, at that time we will accept their donation.
#8: How do you decide who gets to go?
A: Veterans (includes active duty, reserves and national guard) from Benton, Lane, Lincoln and Linn counties who served anytime, anywhere, between the beginning of WWII and the end of the Vietnam War (December 7, 1941 to May 7, 1975), are eligible. Veterans are essentially flown on a “first to register – first to fly basis”, although we do prioritize. Highest priority is given to most senior & terminally ill veterans.
#9: How are you funded?
A: Our funding comes from individuals across our region who recognize the great accomplishments and sacrifices of veterans and want them to see their memorials. Other significant contributors are organizations like local American Legion, VFW, Lions, Rotary and Elks as well as local businesses.