A Slug-A-Bug employee had the privilege recently of helping honor a Vietnam veteran. That man was her father, John Quarterman. He served from 1968 to 1970 as a Navigator/Observer on OV-1 Mohawk Reconnaissance Aircraft.

Honor Flight

Chrissy Gagnon, Slug-A-Bug Route Manager, accompanied her dad on an Honor Flight to our nation’s capital from June 9-11. The Honor Flight organization’s primary goal is to fly veterans to the war memorials in Washington, D.C. In recent years, its role has expanded to include Korean War and Vietnam veterans.

Quarterman was among the veterans selected for the Space Coast Honor Flight in June. The selection process typically involves choosing five to seven veterans from a specific area. Honor Flight covers all expenses associated with the trip.

An unforgettable experience

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Honor Flight program is the dedication of its volunteers. Volunteers accompany their assigned veterans from the moment they leave their homes until they return. 

The journey began with a police and motorcycle escort. Volunteers and veterans traveled to the Orlando International Airport. During such poignant moments, it’s not uncommon to see tears of joy and gratitude from both the veterans and their families. Many of the veterans require wheelchairs, a stark reminder of the physical toll that their service has taken on their bodies.

Outpouring of appreciation

Upon arriving in Washington, D.C, the veterans enjoy an outpouring of support and gratitude from the local community. They visit significant landmarks such as the World War II Memorial, where they can pay homage to fallen comrades and reflect on their own experiences. For many, this visit represents closure, healing and an opportunity to share their stories with a receptive audience.

Gagnon said the experience was extremely worthwhile for her dad and everyone involved. 

“I just want to say thank you to Slug-A-Bug President Steve Lum for affording me this opportunity to join my father to honor his service on his Honor Flight to Washington D.C.,” she said. “I encourage everyone at Slug-A-Bug, or anyone who has the time and dedication, to salute our troops by volunteering with Space Coast Honor Flight. They are amazing.”

Trip to Arlington

The group’s of 28 veterans also visited Arlington National Cemetery, where they placed a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Other stops on the excursion included the Air Force Memorial, the Military Women’s Memorial and the United States Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial). 

About Quarterman’s service

The OV-1 Mohawk reconnaissance aircraft on which Quarterman served played a crucial role in gathering intelligence during the Vietnam War. As a strategic low-level flight aircraft, the Mohawk would fly ahead of ground forces to pinpoint enemy locations and capabilities. This mission made them vulnerable to ground fire and enemy fighters. There was continuous fire upon the aircraft during almost every mission.

The crews of the OV-1 Mohawk were aware of the risks they faced. They knew the enemy could shoot them down at any moment. This constant threat required them to be alert and quick-thinking. Despite the dangers, the crews succeeded in gaining vital information to assist soldiers on the ground. 

For their meritorious performance in combat situations, the crew members of the OV-1 Mohawk received the Air Medal. The Air Medal is for members of the U.S. Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by heroic achievement during flight.

Please support Honor Flight

Slug-A-Bug encourages everyone to support Honor Flight and its mission. By making a donation to this organization, you can help ensure that deserving veterans like John Quarterman have opportunities like this. Your contribution will help cover the costs of transportation, accommodation, and support services for the veterans.

To donate to Honor Flight, please visit: https://www.honorflight.org/donations