Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
How are you funded?
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
We do not receive any federal or state funding—and are privately funded through the support of individuals, businesses, civic groups, and foundations that share our commitment to honoring local veterans.
Can I make a donation to Missions of Honor?
Yes! We gratefully accept donations from our generous community. Your contribution is a meaningful way to show appreciation and gratitude to the heroes who served our country.
Donations can be made online or mailed to: 321 S. Nicolet Road, Suite A, Appleton, WI 54914. You can also consult our Individual Giving page to learn about other ways to contribute.
Questions About the Old Glory Honor Flight
How do you decide which veterans get to go?
Veterans are selected on a first-come, first-served basis. We currently accept applications from all eligible veterans who served on active duty prior to May 7, 1975. Top priority is given to World War II and Korean War veterans, as well as veterans of any era with a terminal illness. Applications are processed in the order they’re received. We’ll contact you about six weeks before your flight with trip details.
How much does it cost? How much money do I need to bring?
There is no cost for eligible veterans—the trip is our way of saying “thank you” for your service. You don’t need to bring any money unless you plan to buy souvenirs.
Can my spouse or significant other come with me?
We understand that many veterans would like to share this experience with their spouse or significant other. However, due to our mission structure and limited seating, only eligible veterans may travel on the flight. The only way your spouse or significant other can join your mission is if they also qualify to participate as a veteran.
Can my son, daughter, or grandchild go as a guardian escort?
Possibly. We do our best to maximize the number of veterans on each mission, so there are a limited number of guardian spots available. Family members are welcome to apply, but we can’t guarantee placement. If selected, the current guardian fee is $500. Guardians must attend a mandatory training session and assist other veterans throughout the trip, not just their own family member. To be considered, your guardian should complete our guardian application at or around the same time you complete our veteran application.
Are terminally ill veterans given special priority?
Yes. Terminally ill veterans receive top priority and are placed at the front of our waitlist for the next available flight to Washington, D.C. We ask that you provide a note from your physician and contact us to discuss the best course of action with our medical coordinator.
What if I use a wheelchair or require oxygen?
Wheelchairs: We provide wheelchairs for any veteran who needs one during the trip. Each veteran who uses a wheelchair will be paired with a trained guardian escort to ensure comfort and safety throughout the day. Our motor coaches are also equipped with wheelchair lifts as needed.
Oxygen: If you require oxygen, your healthcare provider must supply a prescription specifying the delivery method (mask or nasal cannula), frequency (as needed or continuous), and flow rate (typically 2–3 liters per minute). You’ll need to arrange for an FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrator for use on the plane—your regular oxygen supplier should be able to provide one for rent. We’ll provide oxygen cylinders for use while in Washington, D.C. Please note that oxygen cylinders cannot be used on the aircraft. Veterans who need oxygen are required to have cylinders available for travel to and from the airport. If you require oxygen during the trip, please contact us to discuss arrangements.
How soon do I fly once I apply?
Once your application is received and processed, the typical wait time is 12-18 months before your scheduled flight. This timeline allows us to coordinate logistics, secure funding, and ensure each mission provides the meaningful experience our veterans deserve.
Remember that World War II and Korean War veterans, as well as veterans of any era with a terminal illness, receive top priority and may fly sooner. We’ll contact you approximately six weeks before your flight with specific trip details and preparation information.
Questions about Freedom to Liberty Retreat
What time of year do you accept applications?
We accept applications only during our open application period—typically January through April. A maximum of 60 veterans are selected for each mission. Because space is limited and demand is high, we’re unable to accommodate everyone who applies.
Can I still apply if I don’t live within the Missions of Honor region of operation?
In 2026, Missions of Honor was proud to expand to the entire state of WI for the Freedom to Liberty: A Mission of Healing Retreat. Going forward, all eligible veterans who reside in Wisconsin are able to apply. As the program grows, we hope to expand to other states so check back for updates.
How will I know my application has been received?
After submitting your application, you should receive a confirmation message at the email address you provided. If you do not receive this email confirmation, please check your junk or spam folder. If you still don’t see a confirmation message, your application may not have gone through. The most common issue is missing required information, so please review your submission carefully before resubmitting.
If I apply more than once, will it improve my chances of being selected?
Submitting multiple applications will result in all of your entries—including the original one—being deleted from our system.
Do I need to provide proof of service?
Yes. You’ll need to provide a redacted paper copy of your DD214 prior to the mission.
How much money do I need to bring?
That’s completely up to you and your personal interests. The Freedom to Liberty: A Mission of Healing Retreat covers airfare, lodging, ground transportation, admissions, most meals, and other general expenses through the support of our organization and partners. You’ll only need money for personal purchases such as souvenirs, optional activities, or alcohol.
Do I need a REAL ID or valid U.S. passport to fly?
You don’t need both. However, TSA requires you to present a valid REAL ID driver’s license or valid passport to fly—no exceptions.
Can I bring my spouse or another family member on this trip?
Unfortunately not. Because our goal is to include as many veterans as possible on each mission, this retreat is reserved exclusively for participating veterans, and family members are not eligible to attend.
Can my spouse or another family member meet me in New York and stay with me?
Unfortunately not. This mission is exclusively for participating veterans, and our venues and other accommodations cannot support additional guests.
If I’m selected, can I fly to New York with the group but make my own plans outside of the itinerary?
No. Participation in the Freedom to Liberty: A Mission of Healing Retreat is limited to the official group itinerary. Veterans are not permitted to make separate travel plans or arrangements outside of the scheduled group activities.
What happens if I get sick or injured during the trip and need medical attention?
A licensed physician and a certified mental health professional travel with our group to provide support as needed. If a situation requires a visit to a hospital or other medical facility, your personal insurance will be billed.
What if I need a wheelchair during the trip?
No problem. We’ll work with you to make sure your needs are met and that you’re comfortable throughout the mission. Please contact us to discuss arrangements.
What if I have a service dog?
If you have a certified service dog, we’ll make every effort to ensure that both you and your dog are accommodated. Your service dog must remain vested during the Freedom to Liberty: A Mission of Healing Retreat, and you’ll need to follow all applicable rules and regulations while traveling.
I’m a smoker. Will I be able to smoke on this mission?
Smoking is permitted, but only in designated smoking areas. When smoking, we ask that you be considerate of those around you, including your roommate.
Will alcohol be available on this mission?
Yes. Alcohol will be readily available, but we ask that you exercise restraint. All participants are required to sign a personal conduct pledge before the mission. Public intoxication, use of illegal substances, or any other inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated and may result in early dismissal from the trip.
Can I apply as a volunteer for the Freedom to Liberty: A Mission of Healing Retreat?
Our goal is to include as many veterans as possible on the retreat and we do not have a need for guardians on this mission. Thank you for your understanding.
