This Saturday, March 29th marks Vietnam War Veterans Day, a day to reflect on the sacrifices and service of the men and women who served in the Vietnam War.
Many of these veterans returned home to a country that was divided in its support for the war, and in some cases, they were met with hostility rather than the gratitude they deserved. This day is an opportunity not only to honor their bravery and commitment but also to offer a long-overdue welcome home.
Harold Jacobson, a Vietnam War Veteran of Lennox (pictured at right) who served in the United States Army, has been selected along with over 80 Veterans by Midwest Honor Flight to take a long awaited trip to Washington, D.C. on Mission25 on May 20, 2025.
Joining him will be Harold’s brother, Steve Jacobson. Steve grew up in Lennox and now lives in Dell Rapids.
Midwest Honor Flight’s mission is to transport America’s Veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit those memorials dedicated to honor the service and sacrifices of themselves and to fellow Veterans.
When asked about the importance of Midwest Honor Flight, Aaron Van Beek, CEO, said, “They answered the call to serve our country and those around the globe. It’s now our duty as a grateful nation to get them out to Washington, D.C. to see the memorials dedicated to their service and fellow comrades. It truly is the least we can do as the American people for our brave American heroes to visit their memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice in our nation’s capital - Washington, D.C!”
The trip begins with a celebratory send-off, including a presentation of our nation’s colors. The men and women who comprise the Veteran group will board the chartered commercial jet and head to DC for a one-day trip they will talk about for the rest of their lives. During their time in DC, we will visit Arlington National Cemetery to witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. They will also visit the Navy Memorial, Air Force Memorial, and Marine Corps Memorial. To finish the day, they will spend time at each of the war memorials as well - WWII Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Wall and Memorial.
“I look forward to finding my buddy’s name on the wall, Armando Monterrubio. We used to call him Tiny. He was a huge guy. Had a heart of gold. He died trying to save others,” said Harold.
The Welcome Home Celebration for Midwest Honor Flight will be held May 20 at 9:30 p.m. at the Sioux Falls Arena. The welcome home celebration begins on the flight back to Sioux Falls with mail call. Mail Call is a very personal, very touching way to let the Veterans know that, even after all these years, their sacrifices are still appreciated. If you chose to write a veteran a letter for their welcome home celebration, send letters to MWHF Mission 25 Mail Call, Attn: (Veteran first and last name); PO Box 22, Sioux Center, IA 51250. These leters need to be sent no later than May 3 to ensure it arrives on time.
An “Honor Flight Tour” is simply a small token of appreciation for everything the Veterans have done. Throughout their Midwest Honor Flight tour, the Veterans are thanked, recognized and admired for their service. They come home personally knowing how much their country loves them and respects them. Veterans will never forget this gratitude and adoration.
Trips are made possible with the support of community members, organizations, and businesses. Veterans do not pay a single cent for their trip which is why donations are vital to continuing these Missions. Those interested in supporting the Midwest Honor Flight or applying for a future Mission can visit their website at www.midwesthonorflight.org or by calling 605-215-1319.