EATONTON, Ga. — Thanks to a generous donation, about a dozen veterans will take a free honor flight to see the war memorials in Washington D.C.
At Eatonton Veterans Thrift Store, it's all about veterans helping other veterans.
You'll find more than just clothes, furniture and toys. Instead, you'll find veterans working and volunteering to raise money for causes that support other veterans.
David Hastings is a Vietnam War veteran.
"It makes us feel productive too when we come back here and help out and do good for our community," he said.
The thrift store was started by the Eatonton VFW Post 6686, and the profits the store brings in help support a variety of non-profits that support other veterans.
John Betancourt is on the board for the thrift store. He said supporting Middle Georgia Honor Flight means a lot to him, because he wants all veterans to have the chance to see the war memorials in Washington D.C.
"I have some of my hometown kids I grew up with that are on that wall. Just going there is, it brings tears to your eyes," Betancourt said.
Executive Director of Middle Georgia Honor Flight Jeanette Wall said their donation will fund an entire flight, which costs about $15,000 and then some.
"I mean such a surprise, and you know very much needed. And we're so excited," Wall said.
Betancourt went on an honor flight himself last year. The flight was full of all Vietnam veterans.
"What Washington has done, United States had done for memorials, it's amazing. You have to experience it," Betancourt said. "You have to go there and see it."
Nikki Barker is an Iraq War veteran, and manages the store today. She said supporting Middle Georgia Honor Flight was an easy decision.
"It made all of us so excited. But it was a no-brainer to donate to them. They're just an awesome organization," Barker said.
She said people thanked her for her service when she came home, and she wants all veterans to receive that same honor.
"I love my Vietnam veterans. They were treated awful when they came back. So it does — it makes me feel good to give back to them; let them know they're loved," she said.
The thrift store is always accepting donations of any kind. You can call them at 706-749-8477 for more information.
Middle Georgia Honor Flight wants more Vietnam, Korea, World War Two, and terminally ill veterans to sign up for a free flight. To learn more, visit their website.