Honoring Heroes: Local Veterans Embark on the 20th Snap-on Honor Flight
This October 11th, excitement filled the air at the Tri-Cities Airport as five local veterans and their companions kickstarted their journey to Washington, D.C. This trip marks the landmark 20th Snap-on Honor Flight, a program dedicated to honoring veterans by taking them to visit the memorials that commemorate their service. Representing Elizabethton, Mountain City, and Bristol, these veterans are ready to experience a day filled with gratitude and remembrance.
Meet the Veterans
Among the honored few are Bobby Arnett from Elizabethton, and Wade Campbell, Bruce Price, Jim Bates, and Albert Cox from the nearby towns. Each of these courageous men has a unique story and a rich history of service to our country:
- Bobby Arnett – A proud Marine Corps veteran who served during the Vietnam War after enlisting at just 17 years old. His wife, Rose Arnett, who spent 27 years with Snap-on, nominated him for this special honor.
- Wade Campbell – Another Vietnam veteran, Wade trained in a military motor pool. His son Michael Campbell, a dedicated Snap-on employee for two decades, nominated him to ensure he felt the appreciation he deserves.
- Bruce Price – Serving as a helicopter crew chief and door gunner during Vietnam, Bruce was also nominated by his son-in-law, Michael Campbell.
- Jim Bates – This Marine Corps veteran served in various communications roles during peacetime and had the honor of being deployed during the Cuban Blockade, thanks to the nomination from his nephew, Scott Bateman.
- Albert Cox – Drafted into the Army in 1963, Albert was a part of the 8th Infantry Bullets drill team, showcasing his skills at various shows and football games. His nomination also came from his nephew, Scott Bateman.
A Unique Journey
The Snap-on Honor Flight has a remarkable history. To date, nearly 500 veterans from across the nation have had the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C., courtesy of Snap-on. For over a decade, the company has been dedicated to showing gratitude to its retirees, associates, and franchisees who have served in the military.
Thanks to the collaboration between Snap-on and the Honor Flight Network, countless veterans have had the chance to experience not just the memorials, but the deep appreciation of a grateful nation. This organization, with its heartfelt mission, has made it possible for veterans to revisit their memories and reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom.
The Day of Departure
As the day started, the veterans gathered at the Tri-Cities Airport amidst family and friends, filled with anticipation. Each veteran, accompanied by a companion, brought with them stories of courage and commitment. The atmosphere was electric, as everyone exchanged laughter and shared their expectations for the trip ahead.
Once they boarded their flight, the camaraderie among the veterans grew stronger. Stories were shared, jokes were exchanged, and bonds were formed. It was a reminder of the brotherhood that comes with shared experiences, something that is often hard to find in everyday life.
A Day of Remembrance
Upon arriving in Washington, D.C., these veterans will visit several historic memorials, including the World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Each stop on the tour is a chance for reflection and respect, providing a meaningful opportunity for the veterans to honor their fallen comrades and celebrate their own journeys.
As they embark on this incredible adventure, we look forward to hearing about their experiences. This honor flight is a wonderful tribute, showcasing just how much we cherish and value the dedication and bravery of our veterans. Here’s to a day filled with memories, stories, and well-deserved gratitude!
