FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS  

How do you decide which Veterans go? 

Veterans are flown on a “first-come, first-served basis.”  Within the applicants, top priority is currently given to World War II Veterans, Korean and Vietnam era Veterans and all other Veterans with a terminal illness.  

Can I go more than once?  

Unfortunately, due to limited funding and resources, Veterans are limited to a single trip.  Honor Flight hubs exist solely by fundraisers and donations.  It is our mission and responsibility to ensure that those monies are utilized to transport as many of those Veterans as possible who have not already had the opportunity to visit their memorials. 

Can my spouse go with me? 

The only spouses who are permitted to go are those who are Veterans themselves.  We do not have the resources, funding, or seating available to transport all the Veterans who are presently on our waiting list.  Regretfully, adding spouses simply isn’t an option for our program. 

I am the Widow of a Veteran.  Can I go? 

Sadly, the answer is “no.”  Due to limited funding, resources and available seating, we must focus our efforts on those Veterans wishing to go. 

How much does it cost?  How much money do I need to bring? 

The cost for all Veterans is FREE.  You do not need to bring any money unless you intend to purchase souvenirs.  The cost for a Guardian is $500.00, which covers all transportation costs, meals, and anything else needed for the day of the flight. 

What if the Veteran will need a wheelchair? 

WHEELCHAIRS – typically, about 50% of the Veterans who are transported will require wheelchairs.  Unless the Veteran has a special wheelchair that he/she requires, Leatherstocking Honor Flight can provide a travel-style, (light-weight) wheelchair for the day.   

Who can go as a Guardian? 

We encourage family members to be Guardians.  It is a wonderful experience for the Veteran and family member to experience this together.  However, there are some Veterans who do not have a family member or friend to accompany them.  We, therefore, ask that the Guardian be able-bodied, between the ages of 18 and 70. Our top priority is the safe travel of ALL our Veterans.  Who will or will not serve as a Guardian, and how many Guardians will be needed, is the sole responsibility of the Hub Director. That decision is based upon many factors, such as how many disabled Veterans are on that flight. Of the disabled Veterans going, how many will need extra assistance getting on and off the bus? Which Guardian applicants are most qualified? Medically trained, active-duty military personnel and able-bodied Veterans who have previously participated in a flight are given top priority to act as Guardians.  Applicants physically capable of assisting in the lifting of Veterans are also a top priority.   

Can I make a donation to Leatherstocking Honor Flight? 

Yes!  Leatherstocking gratefully accepts donations from anyone, however, we would prefer that the Veterans do not…they have given enough.  This Trip of a Lifetime is our way of saying THANK YOU.  For more information, click on the DONATE button. 

How are you funded? 

Funding for Leatherstocking Honor Flight comes primarily from donations made by individuals, Fraternal organizations (local American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Am Vets, Purple Heart, Disabled Veterans), as well as various businesses and corporations on a local level.  If you would like to help support Leatherstocking Honor Flight, click on the DONATE button.