Members First CU Donates $480 to Honor Flight New England
October 26, 2017
Members First Credit Union employees take casual day seriously. Each Friday, they give $5 to dress down in jeans and other casual attire to support local charities. The Manchester, NH-based credit union recently donated $480 from its casual Friday fund to "Honor Flight New England," a non-profit organization based in Hooksett.
Founded in 2009 by Joe Byron, a Vietnam-era veteran, credit union member and retired Manchester police officer, Honor Flight New England makes it possible for America's most senior veterans to travel to Washington, D.C. and visit monuments honoring their branches of service and the wars in which they served. The trips include round-trip air transportation, ground transportation, guided tours, accommodations and meals - all at no cost to the veterans. Top priority is currently given to the veterans of World War II and those who are terminally ill.
"The Honor Flight is a deeply meaningful and moving experience for the veterans who participate," said Byron. "For many, the trip provides closure. Traveling with fellow veterans gives them the opportunity to reflect on their service and speak about their experiences with people who truly understand - their comrades. Some have described it as one of the best days of their lives.
The $480 donation from the Members First Casual Friday Fund will provide commemorative jackets for 16 veterans and more than 30 meals on the upcoming Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C. in November.
"Supporting our community and honoring those who serve it are key components of the credit union's mission," said Bruce Leighton, president and CEO at Members First. "We applaud long-time credit union member, Joe Byron, and Honor Flight New England's dedication to the men and women who served our country and we are deeply honored to help support this mission."