Carmel, NY – On Saturday, May 20th, 10 Veterans from Putnam County embarked on the Hudson Valley Honor Flight’s 30^th Mission. Among the distinguished passengers were two county employees from the Veterans Service Agency, Vietnam Veterans Steve Seid and Director of the Putnam County Veterans Service Agency Karl Rohde. Each Veteran on the flight is assigned a “Guardian” providing them dedicated support throughout their trip. Seid’s son Greg served as his Guardian, with Megan Castellano of Joseph P. Dwyer Vet2Vet/Guardian Revival acting as Rohde’s Guardian. Putnam County Legislator Erin Lee Crowley also joined the mission as a Guardian for Vietnam Veteran Freddy Wennberg of Mahopac.

The remaining 7 Putnam County Veterans on the flight included 5 Vietnam Veterans (Joseph Jacysyn, John Wighton, Daniel Dillon, John Healey, and Kevin Neary) 1 Korean War Veteran (Harold Demarsh), and 1 World War II Veteran (Amedio Buttiglione).

Over 60 esteemed Veterans were part of this Honor Flight out of Westchester County Airport.  The Hudson Valley Honor Flight program seeks to express gratitude and honor the sacrifices made by our veterans, allowing them to visit and reflect upon the memorials dedicated to their service in the nation's capital.

The day began with an emotional send-off at commencing at 6:30am. County Executive Kevin Byrne, who attended the event, expressed his deep appreciation for the Veterans and their service, stating, "It’s an incredible experience to watch these esteemed Veterans depart for an Honor Flight mission. I encourage everyone to attend an Honor Flight send-off or Welcome Home. We are forever indebted to these brave men and women who have selflessly served our country. Their dedication and sacrifice continue to inspire us all."

Karl Rohde, Director of the Putnam County Veterans Service Agency, expressed his appreciation for being part of the 30th Honor Flight, saying, "It is a privilege to join my fellow Veterans on this transformative journey. The Hudson Valley Honor Flight not only allows us to visit the memorials that pay tribute to our service but also offers a unique opportunity for camaraderie and reflection. I am deeply grateful to everyone involved in making this experience possible."

Legislator Erin Lee Crowley, who served as a Guardian during the trip, shared her sentiments, stating, "Accompanying our Veterans on this Honor Flight has been an incredibly humbling experience. Their stories and their dedication to our country are truly awe-inspiring. It is an honor to offer support and gratitude as we visit the memorials together, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten."

The Hudson Valley Honor Flight continues to serve as a profound tribute to the brave men and women who have dedicated themselves to defending our nation. The journey to Washington, D.C. allows Veterans to reflect on their service, fosters camaraderie among peers, and provides an opportunity for the community to express its gratitude.

For more information visit HVHonorflight.com