Honor Flight

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliarist Anthony L. Elvas, Flotilla 58 Fort Pierce, along with one hundred World War II combat veterans were recognized for their sacrifice and service with an "Honor Flight" to Washington DC and Arlington National Cemetery.

The Honor Flight to honor living veterans was sponsored by the Martin County Fire Department funded by "boot collections" and other fundraising activities.

Auxiliarist Elvas enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17. He was assigned to Pacific duty as a fireman aboard the Navy destroyer USS Swanson escorting the USS Indianapolis to Hawaii. The Indianapolis became the last American ship sunk in WWII. It was sunk by a Japanese submarine after the Swanson was redirected to escort the battleship USS New Jersey in the waters off Iwo Jima.

The day began with a police escort for the four buses going from Stuart, Florida toWest Palm Beach Airport. Martin County Fire Department arranged a grand sendoff with fire trucks spouting water into rainbows and emergency vehicle lights reflecting in the spray.

On arrival at Washington the flight was escorted to the disembarking gate by vehicles with American Flags proudly flying. In the airport reception area a team of more than 500 soldiers, firemen, Boy Scouts, and well wishers greeted these one hundred "Old Warriors" and the firemen and emergency medical technicians that were with them.

These men were then taken on an escorted tour of monuments and of course Arlington National Cemetary.

"The monuments were beautiful but not as beautiful as the people. They all were thanking us and shaking our hands while we were thanking the young service men and women for their sacrifices today," Elvas said feeling great emotion. "The tradition of Americans sacrificing their all for freedom carries on, God bless the USA," he added.

The return flight, after a long but wonderful day, was a time for reflection. As the veterans tried to put it all in perspective, Mr. Elvas said he had never been thanked or honored in any way before nor did he think he should be, but it was a wonderful feeling that is irreplaceable and much appreciated.

He continues his service to America and is still serving as an active member in Flotilla 58, Fort Pierce. He just requalified as a crewperson on Auxiliary vessels.

He is a man of honor and was justly recognized.

Congratulations Auxiliarist "Tony" Elvas!

 

 

~MG 01-14-11