Eighty-One Women Flown By Southwest To Washington, D.C.

John Glenn Columbus International Airport had the incredible opportunity to honor a relatively under-recognized group of Veterans who have made unimaginable sacrifices in the service of our great nation—women.

On September 10, the 77th Honor Flight took off from Columbus. However, this Honor Flight was unique, as it marked the first all-female Honor Flight to depart from Columbus. Southwest Airlines, which is the official commercial carrier of the Honor Flight Network, said in a blog post that there was a deep sense of responsibility to make sure that this momentous occasion was special for every Veteran involved.

The first all-female Honor FCMH Honor Flight from Columbus transported 81 women, including Veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, as well as their caretakers. A large crowd was on-hand at the airport lobby to honor the Veterans. As they made their way through the airport to their gate, they received a hero’s send-off. There was a flurry of emotions as Veteran’s swapped stories and memories, took pictures, and chatted with Southwest Customer Service Agents, the Flight Crew, and other Customers who were in the gate area.

One special woman, Margaret Switzer (pictured, below), stole the hearts of her fellow Veterans and Southwest employees alike. Switzer, who is nearing her 100th birthday, was the oldest Veteran on the flight and served as a secretary during World War II. She arrived in the lobby, proudly wearing her Army cap like the badge of honor that it truly is. Other Veterans in attendance spoke of her as one-of-many trailblazers who made the opportunities for women in the military what they are today.

While boarding, each Veteran was presented with a special pink rose, and as they taxied to the runway, they were met with a ceremonial water arch.
          
The flight departed Columbus, making a stop at Arlington to visit the Women in Military Service for America Memorial. Upon their arrival, the group was greeted by retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Wilma L. Vaught, one of the most decorated women in U.S. military history. They were also treated to a special program and lunch. The group then flew on to the nation’s capital to visit various memorials including the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, where four of the Veterans who worked as nurses during the Vietnam War, were honored during a special flag presentation.
          
From pre-departure check-in, to wheels down upon their return to Columbus, the 81 women on Southwest Flight #8248 completed a roughly 17-hour trip. When they exited the plane, they were met by the cheers from a crowd of more than 800 people from the local community.

(Source: Southwest blog. Images provided)

FMI: www.southwest.com