Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for the program?
Roughrider Honor Flight is accepting applications from World War II Veterans living within 200 miles of Bismarck to participate in this program. Applications will be taken on a first come, first served basis. Consideration may be given to applicants outside this area, but preference will be given to local veterans. As a member of Honor Flight Network TM we are obligated to offer this opportunity to a few veterans who are already on the area waiting list.
What if you need assistance to help take the trip?
Roughrider Honor Flight realizes the veterans may need assistance for such things as wheelchairs, medications etc. You may bring your own escort to assist you on the trip. There is a fee of $500.00 for an escort to travel with you. You may choose your own escort to go with you, however this escort MUST be capable of handling all luggage and able to push your wheelchair if needed. The escort may be asked to complete an application to assess their ability to perform the duties required of an escort. You will be sharing a hotel room with your escort. We strongly recommend that you have an escort if you feel you need to as we want this to be a wonderful and meaningful experience for you. Please think hard about this need and do not bring an escort if you do not need one. We are trying very hard to have as many veterans participate as possible and we do not want to take the seat of a veteran away for an escort unless needed.
Can my spouse fly with me?
Unfortunately, no. Non-veteran spouses may be eligible for the trip as an escort for the veteran, only under unusual circumstances. This decision is made by the program director. Please see the above statement for specific criteria. Spouses and families may purchase tickets on a commercial flight during the scheduled Honor Flights to meet their veteran in Washington D.C., DO NOT BOOK YOUR HOTEL ROOMS OR FLIGHT UNTIL YOUR LOVED ONE HAS BEEN ACCEPTED ON THE TRIP. Spouses and family members should be able to join us at most activities in Washington . However, space limitations might mandate exclusion from some events.
Do I need an escort?
No, you do not. Our top priority is the safe travel of all veterans. There will be escorts available on the trip to aid those veterans who may need a little extra help getting around. Choosing not to have an escort will not harm your chances of being selected for the flight.
If I don’t have an escort will I room alone?
No, you will be paired with another veteran.
What are the expenses associated with the flight?
There is no cost for World War II Veterans for their flight, accommodations and meals from the time they leave Bismarck for Washington D.C. until their return. All travel costs to and from Bismarck before and after the flight are the responsibility of the veteran. You do not need to bring any money, unless you intend to purchase souvenirs. Fees for escorts are $500.
How can I donate?
Donations are accepted by mail and online. Visit our donation page for more information.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes. All donations are tax deductible.
What will the trip consist of?
Please remember this is a tentative schedule and is subject to change. We will leave Bismarck around 8:00am on a chartered flight, flying nonstop to Washington Dulles Airport where we will be met by out tour buses that will take us to see various memorials in the Washington DC area. Memorials will likely include the Vietnam Memorial, Korean Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial. We will then be checking into our hotel and a banquet will be served. The balance of the evening will be on your own, but we recommend a good night sleep. In the morning we will have breakfast at the hotel and board our buses. We will then go to Arlington National Cemetery for a tour and see the changing of the guard. You will then have your deserved visit to the World War II Memorial built in your honor. We will have lunch at the World War II Memorial and then back to the airport for your departure home. We will arrive back in Bismarck at approximately 9:00pm.
How many flights are scheduled from Bismarck?
At this time, one flight is currently scheduled to depart from Bismarck in Sept 2010. Future flights will depend upon available funding.
Is somebody making money from this?
No one involved with Roughrider Honor Flight is making a profit from this project. Everyone involved with the project has generously donated their time and talents to make this dream a reality. We are doing this solely to honor our World War II Veterans.
If I donate, can I sponsor a specific veteran to go on the trip?
No. Donations are completely separate from the application process. Funding received from a veteran's family will not be a factor in determining eligibility for the trip. This helps avoid the impression someone can buy their way onto this trip. If you are interested in providing funding for a veteran to take the trip, you can participate in the Adopt-a-Vet Program. This program allows service groups, businesses, schools and individuals the opportunity to raise funds to send a veteran on the trip. In the spirit of knowing that all veterans deserve to participate, regardless of their affiliations or community stature, it is not possible to link the Adopt-a-Vet program to one specific individual.
Contact us: info@rrhonorflight.com or 701-373-5416
The Roughrider Honor Flight is a proud member of the Honor Flight Network