Cumberland County veterans and their escorts were led by first responders from Interstate 40 via Peavine Road to Holiday Inn Express upon returning home from Washington, DC, aboard HonorAir Knoxville Flight 37.
“Patriotic support was evident with the American flag posted over Peavine Road,” said Gus Gocella, Cumberland County representative to HonorAir Knoxville. “First responders were standing abreast and underneath the U.S. flag facing the Premier Coach as it passed, with veterans who were returning from their day visiting military and other memorials in Washington, DC.”
Cumberland County veterans on Knoxville HonorAir Flight 37 were Jack Hammond, Tommy Parks, John Witsell, Donald Guckenberger, Allen LeBeau, James Ross, Phillip Winterroth, Billie Prather, Franklin Slagle Jr., Garry Fugitt, Gary Guinn, Myrlee Ann Smith, Bobby Naylor and escorts Gocella, Josette Cleghorn, Jonathan Hall and Dr. Danny Ray Hall.
“What a beautiful sight, with first responders flashing their lights and many patriotic citizens gathered in the parking areas,” Gocella said. “As the Coach drove down behind the Holiday Inn, it was greeted by military fraternal groups, first responders and many friends from Cumberland County cheering and waving their United States, service branch and club flags to welcome veterans home.”
He added, “As the veterans deboarded the Coach and faced the flags, Mrs. Nancy Mitchell of Cumberland County Band played taps. All stood at attention and saluted the flag. An expression of gratitude was most evident by all in attendance.”
To date, HonorAir Knoxville has taken more than 4,500 veterans to the nation’s capital to visit military and other memorials built in their honor. These flights are at no cost to the veterans.
HonorAir Knoxville Inc. was started in 2007 by Eddie Mannis of Knoxville.
“With the help of many volunteers, local monetary contributions, in-kind services, grants and corporate sponsors, HonorAir Knoxville Inc. is still going strong,” Gocella said. “I want to thank everyone who participated in this Welcome Home of Knoxville’s HonorAir Flight 37.”
Another flight is being planned for April 2026.
“Thanks to our sponsors and all who support this worthwhile cause,” Gocella said.