LAS VEGAS –– An 84-year-old former combat engineer and an 84-year-old former electrician were two of 22 veterans to receive a hero's welcome upon their return from a trip to Washington with Honor Flight of Southern Nevada. They were escorted by Matt Dice, America First Credit Union (AFCU) Durango branch manager and Deborah Murphy, AFCU market manager of the Craig branch.
"It's a true honor and privilege to escort Mr. Reggans, who has done so much for our country, on this Honor Flight experience," said Dice. "Witnessing the group's emotions at the veterans' memorials is moving. I am grateful America First Credit Union supported and invested in this memorable journey. America First Credit Union will continue to support programs that honor our veterans and the service that they provided to our country."
Upon arrival, Honor Flight of Southern Nevada (HFSN) hosted a reception at the McCarran International Airport for family members, friends and the community to greet the veterans.
AFCU and HFSN have had a relationship in the past, sending four total guardians and, on this mission, AFCU is the only organization to send two guardians.
HFSN flies veterans of World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War on all-expenses-paid trips to Washington, D.C., to experience — among other landmarks and tourist destinations — the WWII Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Marine Corps/Iwo Jima Memorial, and the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery.
At right, Matt Dice, America First Credit Union (AFCU) Durango branch manager, and Deborah Murphy, AFCU market manager of the Craig branch, pose with Ralph Reggans and Richard Wellington.