HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem No. 01 - Recognition of Manuel Acuna for Selection to Participate in the Honor Flight Program1)Recognition of Manuel Acuna for Selection to Participate in the Honor Flight Program
Present a Certificate of Recognition.
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REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL
To:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From:Jason Simpson, City Manager
Prepared by:Candice Alvarez, MMC, City Clerk
Date:November 12, 2024
Subject:Recognition of Manuel Acuna for Selection to Participate in the Honor Flight
Program
Recommendation
Present a Certificate of Recognition.
Background
The Honor Flight program was founded with the mission of honoring our nation’s veterans by
providing them the opportunity to visit Washington, D.C., and reflect on the memorials dedicated
to their service and sacrifice. Established by Jeff Miller and Earl Morse, the Honor Flight Network
initially focused on World War II veterans but has since expanded to include veterans from the
Korean and Vietnam War eras, as well as critically ill veterans from any era.
Since its inception, the Honor Flight Network has transported over 300,000 veterans to
Washington, D.C., and currently transports approximately 22,500 veterans annually. The program
allows veterans to share this momentous occasion with comrades, reflect on their experiences,
remember the fallen, and be honored by the public. The entire trip is provided free of charge to
veterans and is funded by generous donations.
This year, Manuel Acuna, a veteran who served as Sgt. Manuel Acuna, Jr. in the U.S. Army’s
199th Light Infantry Brigade, was selected as one of 95 veterans to participate in this esteemed
program. Sgt. Acuna served in Vietnam from May 2, 1968, to May 1, 1969, and is a Purple Heart
Recipient. His selection to the Honor Flight is a recognition of his service, sacrifice, and continued
commitment to the values of this nation.
Certificate of Recognition
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Discussion
Participation in the Honor Flight trip is a profound and emotional experience for veterans. It
provides them with the opportunity to visit memorials such as the World War II Memorial, Korean
War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and others built to commemorate their
military service and the sacrifices of their comrades. Veterans also have the chance to share
stories with fellow veterans, honor those who did not return, and receive the appreciation of a
grateful nation.
Manuel Acuna’s selection is not only an honor for him but also a point of pride for our community,
as his service represents the highest ideals of sacrifice, patriotism, and duty. As a city, we
recognize and thank Manuel for his bravery, dedication, and commitment to our country. This
recognition also highlights the importance of supporting programs like Honor Flight that ensure
veterans receive the honor and appreciation they deserve.
Fiscal Impact
There is no fiscal impact associated with this recognition.
Attachments
Attachment 1 - Certificate
City Clerk’s Office
Presented To
Manuel Acuna
in recognition of your honorable service to our nation and your selection as
one of 95 veterans this year to participate in the Honor Flight program.
Your bravery and dedication to defending our country, along with your
willingness to travel to Washington, D.C., to reflect on the memorials that
honor your service, is a testament to your selfless commitment to our nation.
Your participation in this program serves as a reminder of the sacrifices
made by you and your fellow veterans, and the City of Lake Elsinore is
proud to join the Honor Flight Network in recognizing your extraordinary
contributions to our freedom and security.
On behalf of the City Council and the residents of Lake Elsinore, we extend
our heartfelt appreciation for your service and congratulate you on this
prestigious honor.
November 12, 2024
Steve Manos, Mayor