The Mendel Alumni Association Veterans & First Responders Committee, chaired by Andy Youpel, is helping organize a special Mendel Honor Flight for Mendel veterans.

The trip is being planned for the Spring/Summer of 2027 and will include up to 35 Mendel veterans and their guardians on a private flight from Midway Airport to Washington, D.C.

There is absolutely no cost for veterans to participate. Meals are also provided.

Honor Flight gives veterans the opportunity to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice, including stops such as the World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Navy, Air Force, USMC memorials, and the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery.

Who Is Eligible?

Any Mendel veteran who served in the U.S. military may apply. Priority is often given based on era of service, with special consideration for World War II veterans, Korean War veterans, Vietnam War veterans, and terminally ill veterans from any era.

Veterans do not need to have served in combat or been deployed overseas to qualify.

Guardian Information

Each veteran may be assigned or request a guardian to assist throughout the day. Guardians may include a physically able family member or volunteer.

Please note: spouses or significant others may not serve as the veteran’s guardian unless they are also qualifying veterans.

The current guardian fee is $500.

How to Apply

Any Mendel veteran interested in participating should complete the application form and return it to:

Mike Dreznes
Email: [email protected]
Address: 233 East 13th Street, Unit 1803, Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: (707) 344-5878

Important: Please do not submit the application directly to the Honor Flight organization. Applications should be sent to Mike.

Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, so interested veterans are encouraged to submit their forms as early as possible.

Download the Mendel Honor Flight Application Form here

This will be a memorable and meaningful day for our Mendel veterans, and the Alumni Association is proud to help honor those who served.