Richard Erschik, an Alva resident, and Vietnam War veteran, has been invited on the Collier-Lee Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., to tour the monuments dedicated to his service and the service and sacrifices of his brothers and sisters.

On May 20, Erschik will be accompanied by his son Tim, who will serve as his guardian on this emotional journey.

Erschik’s military journey began in October 1965 when he was drafted into the Army as part of President Johnson’s 230,000-man call to support the U.S. war efforts in Vietnam.

The trip to Washington, D.C., will provide an opportunity for Erschik and his fellow veterans to reflect on their service and to pay tribute to those who didn’t make it home. Erschik’s participation in the Honor Flight is a reminder that the sacrifices made by our soldiers will never be forgotten, and their service to our country will always be appreciated.

Erschik’s book titled “My Time Served in The United States Army,” which chronicles his experiences as a soldier, is available on Amazon.com and Apple Books.

As we approach the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, it is essential that we continue to honor those who served in that conflict. The Honor Flight returns to Fort Myers RSW airport at 8:30 p.m. on May 20, and visitors are invited to welcome them home.

The Collier-Lee Honor Flight is a non-profit organization that honors veterans by providing them with a free trip to Washington, D.C., to visit the monuments dedicated to their service.

For more information on the Honor Flight program, visit collierhonorflight.org.