The Munising Bay Cruisers, a local organization of car enthusiasts, recently donated $1,800 to the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight, a program dedicated to honoring veterans by providing free trips to Washington, D.C., to visit memorials commemorating their service.

This donation is in line with Munising Bay Cruisers’ mission to support local veterans.

The Upper Peninsula Honor Flight is a regional hub of the national Honor Flight Network, which serves to honor veterans from World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The program prioritizes older veterans and those with terminal illnesses, ensuring they have an opportunity to reflect at memorials that honor their sacrifices.

“This mission is about giving veterans a chance to visit the memorials dedicated to their service,” said Scott Knauf, president of the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight. “It’s a powerful way to thank them for their sacrifices and share a day of camaraderie with fellow veterans.”

Knauf’s involvement in the Honor Flight began when he served as a guardian on Mission 5, accompanying a World War II veteran on a trip to Washington, D.C. “It was my first time in D.C., and the experience was life-changing,” he said.

When Barb Van Rooy, who founded the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight, announced her retirement, Knauf stepped up to ensure the program would continue. “There were still people on the waitlist, and I knew we had to keep it going,” he said.

The September 2024 Honor Flight was a memorable event, despite logistical challenges caused by weather delays.

“We had to postpone the flight by a day, and even then, we left Escanaba late,” Knauf said. “Our time in Washington was abbreviated, but the veterans still visited the most important memorials. The dedication of the volunteers ensured the trip was meaningful for everyone involved.”

Knauf stressed the vital role volunteers play in the success of the Honor Flight program. “The amount of support from volunteers is incredible,” he said. From guiding veterans at the airport to narrating tours in Washington, D.C., every detail is handled by individuals committed to honoring those who served.

“This program wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of the community,” Knauf said. “They make the Honor Flight what it is — a meaningful tribute to those who served.”

Among the veterans on the September flight was Munising native Pete Lindquist, an Air Force veteran who served from 1966 to 1971 during the Vietnam War. Specializing in electronics, Lindquist worked on navigational aids for aircraft and was stationed at bases in Mississippi, Florida and Okinawa, Japan.

Reflecting on his Honor Flight experience, Lindquist described visiting the Vietnam Veterans Memorial as particularly poignant. “Even though I’d been there 30 years ago, it hit me in the gut,” he said. “Living through that era and seeing the names of so many who served — it’s overwhelming.”

Lindquist also expressed gratitude for the volunteers who made the trip possible. “The number of people who step up to support this program is incredible,” he said. “From the guides in Washington to the people cheering us on at the airport, everyone’s commitment is inspiring.”

Lindquist attended the flight with his son, Joe, and noted the camaraderie among the veterans as another highlight. “Interacting with others who served during different eras brings back a sense of connection that’s hard to describe,” he said.

The Munising Bay Cruisers’ $1,800 donation continues their dedication to supporting local veterans. Founded in 2013 by Gary Bovan and Tom Condon, the organization has become a well-respected fixture in the community. Each year, they host the annual Munising Bay Car Show to raise funds for causes benefiting veterans.

“We created the car show to support the All Veterans Memorial and other veteran-focused initiatives,” said Bovan, the group’s president. “Many of our participants are veterans themselves, and this is our way of giving back.”

The 2024 Munising Bay Car Show, held in September, drew participants from across Michigan, Wisconsin and even Canada. Proceeds from the event were used to support the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight.

“Local businesses sponsor awards, and their support is key to making this event possible,” Bovan said. “This year’s donation reflects the generosity of our car owners, sponsors and participants, all of whom are committed to honoring our veterans.”

Knauf expressed his gratitude for the donation, noting how funds like these are used. “Each flight costs about $140,000,” he said. “This covers airfare, meals, transportation and items like jackets and hats for the veterans. Donations like the one from the Munising Bay Cruisers are essential for keeping this program going.”

Looking ahead, Knauf is planning the first all-woman veteran Honor Flight in the Upper Peninsula, set to take place next year. “We’re accommodating 175 women veterans on this flight,” he said. “The younger veterans will serve as guardians for those who need assistance. It’s going to be a special experience tailored to honor their unique contributions.”

As the Munising Bay Cruisers continue their mission to support veterans, their partnership with the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight exemplifies the power of community in honoring those who served. “This is more than a car show,” Bovan said. “It’s about showing our veterans that their sacrifices are remembered and appreciated.”