Honor Flight 2025: A day of remembrance and gratitude

Honor Flight 2025: A day of remembrance and gratitude

An error occurred while preparing your download

Before dawn on November 13, more than 70 veterans gathered at John Glenn Columbus International Airport for a trip unlike any other: a one-day journey of remembrance and connection. Nationwide, in partnership with Honor Flight Columbus, proudly sponsored this once-in-a-lifetime experience, marking the 14th mission the company has supported to honor those who served.

"I've never had a day like this in my life," said veteran Bud Totty, U.S. Marine Corps.

Throughout the day, the veterans visited the World War II, Korean War and Vietnam Veterans Memorials, as well as monuments honoring each military branch. At Arlington National Cemetery, they paid their respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witnessed the changing of the guard.

"The day was memorable, the camaraderie made it special," said veteran Mark McBane, U.S. Navy. "This is the best day I've had in a long time."

The journey concluded with an emotional homecoming celebration, where thousands of supporters lined the airport to cheer, wave flags and say "welcome home." Nationwide employees joined the celebration, offering blankets and heartfelt thanks to the veterans for their service.

An error occurred while preparing your download

"It is humbling to see how powerful the day is for these men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country," said Chad Jester, vice president of Corporate Citizenship at Nationwide. "The appreciation that the veterans receive when they return home is emotional and well deserved, and we are privileged that we are able to partner with Honor Flight to continue Nationwide's long-held support for the veteran community."

Since its founding, Honor Flight Columbus has flown 143 missions and served more than 10,500 veterans across Ohio. Over the past decade, Nationwide has provided nearly $1 million to sponsor 14 flights, serving more than 1,000 veterans.

Nationwide and the Nationwide Foundation's commitment to veterans extends beyond this annual event through initiatives such as sponsoring free admission at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, helping to expand programs at Stockhands Horses for Healing and supporting Adaptive Sports Connection's recreational programs and new wellness facility.

For the veterans, this day was a tribute long overdue. For Nationwide, it was another step in honoring those who gave so much for our freedom.