Welcome Home Speech — Fall Flight 2026
Ladies and gentlemen, today we gather here in Florence to proudly welcome home our
South Willamette Valley Honor Flight veterans. Among the 60 veterans we took to
Washington D.C. we honor Tim Sapp US Army , Dave Lockwood U.S. Army
accompanied by his daughter and guardian Jackie Franklin, and Navy veteran
Paul Cunningham. We also recognize Cindy Forsythe, who served with dedication
as the Purple Team Leader on this flight.
Although this journey carried three veterans from Florence, it carried the same spirit
that defines every Honor Flight. You walked the sacred grounds of our nation’s capital,
stood before memorials etched with sacrifice, and felt the gratitude of a nation that
remembers what courage truly means. Like the veterans before you, you traveled
thousands of miles to visit the places built to honor your service and the service of
those who stood beside you in uniform.
Your journey was not simply a trip — it was a tribute to your bravery, your sacrifice, and
your unwavering commitment to the freedoms we cherish. You represented yourselves
and Florence with dignity and pride, and today your community stands with you in deep
gratitude.
We are proud of you. We thank you. And with all our hearts, we welcome you home.
God bless you and God bless the United States of America.
Steve Baggin