A report by the Crossville Chronicle says that HonorAir Knoxville, an all-volunteer nonprofit founded in 2007, has announced it will sunset its operations after its final scheduled flight on April 8, 2026.

The organization began with the mission of flying World War II veterans from East Tennessee to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorial built in their honor, later expanding eligibility to include Korean War veterans in 2011 and Vietnam War veterans in 2015. Over nearly two decades, it has conducted 38 in-person flights and three virtual ones, honoring more than 4,500 veterans entirely through community donations exceeding $3.5 million and the dedication of volunteers.

The board views this closure as a completion of its mission rather than an end due to failure or financial issues, with efforts continuing to ensure every eligible veteran has the chance to participate in the final flight. Applications for that April 8 flight must be submitted by February 16, 2026. In Cumberland County alone, 404 veterans and 77 escorts have participated since 2009, with local representative Gus Gocella having joined 30 flights and expressing deep pride and gratitude for the community’s support despite the physically demanding 18-hour days involved.

Founder Eddie Mannis emphasized that the decision reflects fulfillment and gratitude, with remaining funds to be handled transparently according to donor intent, and plans underway for a commemorative event and documentary to preserve the organization’s legacy.

For more details, visit www.honorairknoxville.com.