October 19th was a special day for Island resident Melody Walsh.
Perhaps even more so for her Dad, Ivan Wartzok, a Navy veteran who served in Africa during the Korean conflict.
On that Saturday, Melody's Dad was one of 88 veterans who took part in the 13th Badger Honor Flight.
Melody was able to serve as her Dad's guardian.
The trip started with a stop at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. Honor Flight has bases throughout the U. S., with the Badger division originating out of Madison. (There are several bases in WI alone with Appleton/ Old Glory flights perhaps the closest to the Island.) The Ho Chunk Nation is one of the corporate sponsors for Badger flights. 
The veterans were flown to D.C. to visit the monuments built to honor their service. Meals and snacks as well as all ground transportation and any and all health and safety support were complimentary, with guardians paying their own way. 
Ivan's brother-in-law who served on the frontlines during the Korean conflict, was able to be on the same flight with his nephew as his guardian.
The group photo was taken at the Marine Corps Memorial Iwo Jima Statue. This stop had special significance for Ivan as he knew and fished with one of the men depicted in the bronze monument. 
Inscription at the Korean War Veterans Memorial...we owe so much to the men and women who have served and protected us.
It was a long day...at the airport by 5am...returning about 10:30pm...a memorable one. Upon his return, Ivan and his teammates were greeted by over 6,000 grateful citizens at Dane County Airport.
The Island Ceremony is at 10:30 am on Monday...participation of Island students and the traditional patriotic sing-along continues to be part of this event...To go on an Honor Flight: Contact an Island American Legion Member... there are applications here on the Island or visit The Honor Flight Network at the link below.
Have a great week!