Veterans "Honor Flight" Honors Maine Army National Guard Members and Their Fathers

AUGUSTA, ME (07/02/2024) (readMedia)-- Last weekend, a group of veterans embarked on a memorable journey from Portland, Maine to Washington, D.C. as part of an Honor Flight, an event dedicated to honoring America's heroes. Among the participants were two members of the Maine Army National Guard, Col. Jim Young and Chief Warrant Officer Four TJ Libby, who accompanied their fathers on the trip.

The Honor Flight, organized by Honor Flight Maine, transported veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit and reflect at their respective war memorials. The program focused on senior veterans, particularly those who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. This weekend's flight was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these veterans and their families.

Libby's father, Joseph Libby, was a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps who served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967. Young's father, James Young, was a Lance Cpl. – also in the Marine Corps – who deployed to Vietnam from 1964 to 1965, primarily near Da Nang. Coincidentally, both Cpl. Libby and Lance Cpl. Young both sailed from the United States to Vietnam on the USNS General Hugh J. Gaffey – a shared experience that was the source of several colorful stories.

Libby, a seasoned Army National Guard member currently serving as the Executive Officer to The Adjutant General, expressed his anticipation for the trip prior to departure. "It's an incredible honor to share this experience with my father," he said. "We have always looked up to those who served before us, and this trip is a tribute to their sacrifices."

Young, who currently serves as the Maine Army National Guard's Chief of Staff, echoed similar sentiments. "Having the opportunity to visit the nation's capital with my father, who has been my role model, is truly special," Young remarked. "This flight is more than just a trip; it's a way to pay our respects to those who paved the way for us."

Brig. Gen. Diane Dunn, The Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard and Commissioner of the Department of Defense, Veterans, and Emergency Management, spoke to the group of veterans at Portland International Jetport prior to their departure.

"We really just want to take a moment to say thank you for the profound impact you've had on our nation," said Dunn. "I also can't thank Honor Flight Maine enough for organizing this. It's so important to acknowledge all the efforts and sacrifices our veterans have made over the years, and to try and live up to the legacy that you have set for future generations of service members."

For the Libby and the Young families, the Honor Flight represented a unique opportunity to connect with their fathers and fellow veterans. "Sharing this experience with my father is something I'll cherish forever," Young added. "It's a moment of pride and reflection for both of us."