Approximately 45 World War II veterans will fly to Washington, D.C., May 2 as part of the Covington Region Honor Flight thanks to the generosity and support of more than 60 individuals and groups.

Tonitta Sauls, the group’s president, said without that support it would not be possible to allow those veterans the opportunity to travel to see the WWII monument.

“The CRHF is composed of a group of individuals throughout Covington County who created the organization solely to honor local veterans for their service to our nation,” Sauls said. “We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to those who have recognized the service and sacrifice made by our local veterans.”

Sauls said the group would especially like to thank the following sponsors:

Bronze Sponsors: Covington Electric Cooperative, Inc.; Andalusia Distributing Company; South Alabama Regional Airport Authority; Andalusia Rotary Club; Rabren, Odom, Pierce & Hayes, P.C.; American Legion Ladies Auxiliary; Covington County Commission; and American Apparel employees.

Merit Sponsors: Dr. Charles M. Burgess; J & M Bartholomew, Inc.; Andalusia Kiwanis Club; American Legion Post 80; CCB Community Bank; James P. & Hilda Boswell; Three Arts Club; and American Apparel, Inc.

Sauls said with the rapidly approaching flight date, donations are still needed to make this flight possible.

“The WWII Memorial recognizes the service and accomplishments of our veterans and also recognizes the ultimate sacrifice of their friends who never made it home,” she said. “Most WWII veterans will never have the opportunity to visit their memorial unless we act now.”

CRHF board members include: Tonitta Sauls, president; Greg White, vice president; Pam Steele, secretary/treasurer; Ashley Eiland, member; Dwight Mikel, member; Gary Petty, member; and Robert Williamson, member.

Anyone interested in helping the CRHF thank “these selfless ordinary people who saved the world,” can send a tax-deductible contribution to: CRHF, c/o Covington County Commission, P.O. Box 188, Andalusia, AL 36420. Several levels of sponsorships are also available.