CLEARWATER, Fla. — Before sunrise Tuesday morning, dozens of veterans gathered at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport for a journey many have waited for years to take.
Community members are invited to welcome the veterans home during a reception scheduled for 8 p.m. Tuesday at the airport. Parking is free and patriotic attire is encouraged.
Honor Flight of West Central Florida’s Mission 57 departed with 74 veterans bound for Washington, D.C., where they would spend the day visiting national memorials dedicated to military service and sacrifice. The group included 70 Vietnam War veterans and 4 Korean War veterans, some now in their mid-90s.
Among those making the trip was Clearwater resident and Korean War veteran Jim Kalivoda, who was drafted into the U.S. Army in January 1951. Although he had previously visited Washington, D.C., he had never seen the Korean War Veterans Memorial.
“It’s hard and it’s good for my heart,” Kalivoda said before boarding. “I love everybody here, and I’m saddened for the people who are on that wall in Washington, D.C., that didn’t make it.”
Accompanying him on the flight was his daughter, Lynn Conrad, who was excited to act as his companion for the day and share the experience with her father.
“Just for him to experience that Korean memorial for the first time, that’s going to be very exciting for both of us,” Conrad said.
Another Korean War veteran, Sam Ascherl, arrived at the airport before 4 a.m. not knowing anyone else on the trip. By the time boarding began, he was overwhelmed by the support and camaraderie surrounding him. Ascherl served in the U.S. Marine Corps and spent time overseas.
“Everything I’ve ever heard so far is unbelievable,” Ascherl said. “All these people are just outstanding. I can’t get over it.”
Additional Honor Flight missions are planned for Sept. 15 and Oct. 20, 2026.