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Become a Guardian

Guardians make every Old Glory Honor Flight possible—ensuring each veteran feels honored, supported, and has a meaningful experience they’ll never forget.
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American veterans at the Missions of Honor exhibit honoring sacrifice and patriotism.

Eligibility Requirements

Serving as a guardian is both an honor and a responsibility. Guardians play an essential role during our Old Glory Honor Flights—helping with mobility, providing companionship, and ensuring each veteran’s comfort and safety from departure to return. Before applying, please review the eligibility requirements below

Health and Age


You must be between 18 and 69 years old, in good physical health, and emotionally capable of assisting one or more veterans throughout the trip.

Relationship to Veterans

Spouses or significant others may not serve as guardians for their veteran unless they also qualify as a service date–eligible veteran. You will typically be responsible for assisting two veterans that you may or may not know prior to the flight.

Cost and Training

Each guardian is responsible for paying a $500 trip fee, which helps offset travel costs. Attendance at a mandatory, in-person guardian training session in Appleton is also required. Training is typically held on a Saturday morning before the flight; and your trip fee is due at this time.

Airport and Travel Requirements

All Old Glory Honor Flights depart from the Appleton International Airport or another airport in Northeast Wisconsin. Every passenger must present a REAL ID or valid passport to travel. Please visit the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website to learn more about REAL ID requirements.

Selection and Waitlist

Due to the high number of applicants, there is currently a waitlist, and assignments are based on the needs of each flight. Submitting an application does not guarantee placement as a guardian.

People smiling on an aircraft, wearing veteran and volunteer hats, celebrating together during a missions event. Focus on teamwork, veteran assistance, and mission support for honor and service recognition.

You Don’t Get to Pay Your Heroes Back Every Day

Lending your support is one of the most meaningful ways to honor our local veterans. When you serve as a guardian, you help ensure that every veteran travels with comfort, dignity, and the gratitude they deserve.
Apply Now