Newswise — Loyola University Health System nurse Daria Ruffolo, DNP, RN, CCRN, ACNP-BC, recently traveled to Washington, D.C., on the Honor Flight with 92 of our nation’s veterans.
The Honor Flight pays tribute to Chicago-area World War II veterans by flying them on an all-expense-paid trip to the nation’s capital for a day of recognition, remembrance and celebration.
A former patient encouraged Ruffolo to get involved in the trip. She agreed and joined eight other guardians who were responsible for the veterans’ health care throughout the day. The medical and nursing teams were on the lookout for signs of weakness, dehydration, hypoglycemia and fall risks. Six of the participants also required oxygen and many were insulin-dependent diabetics. In addition, several used wheelchairs and one man was blind.
“The Honor Flight was one of the most remarkable experiences I have had as a nurse,” Ruffolo said. “It was a privilege to be involved with a team committed to providing our veterans – our national treasures – with a wonderful day."
The trip included a water-cannon salute upon arrival in Washington. Government officials, an honor guard salute, a performance by the Naval Rifle Artillery team and hundreds of well-wishers also greeted veterans. They then toured World War II memorials and other landmarks before returning to Chicago. Upon arrival they were greeted by a battalion of Chicago police officers and firefighters at full salute, nearly 3,000 family members and friends, bagpipers and the Great Lakes Naval Honor Guard.
“I recommend that anyone sign up as either a general or medical guardian to care for a veteran,” Ruffolo said. “Spending the day serving our nation’s heroes is a life-changing experience."
This was the 60th Honor Flight. Each flight requires 1,200 working hours and more than $600 per veteran. There are an estimated 25,000 World War II veterans living in the Chicago area. The Honor Flight’s goal is to give each of them an opportunity to travel to our nation’s capital. For more information on the Honor Flight, visit www.honorflightchicago.org.
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