Join one of our area’s finest patriots, Barry Lee Booth, D.M.D. as he presents a passionate story about heroes. Learn more about the remarkable work of volunteers and community in Honor Flight, a program that honors America’s WWII veterans by transporting them to Washington, D.C. to reflect at their memorials. The Hamlet will host Booth’s presentation of Honor Flight on Friday, June 17, 2011 at 1 pm. The public is invited, especially veterans who want to learn more about Honor Flight and how they may participate.

The inaugural Honor Flight took place in May of 2005. Six small planes flew out of Springfield, Ohio taking twelve World War II veterans on a visit to the memorial in Washington, DC. In August of 2005, an ever-expanding waiting list of veterans led a transition to commercial airline carriers with the goal of accommodating as many veterans as possible. Honor Flight South Alabama (HFSA), a hub affiliated with the national network, was founded by the South Alabama Veterans’ Council. A cadre of dedicated volunteers assembled and organized, and Senator Jeff Sessions and Congressman Jo Bonner graciously agreed to co-chair the HFSA Board of Trustees. The founding sponsor and “Medal of Honor” level donor, Springhill Medical Center, enthusiastically joined the effort providing myriad resources bringing Honor Flight South Alabama into existence.

Booth remains a dedicated veterans’ advocate, helping to organize the placement of a Vietnam Memorial at the USS Alabama Battleship Park and coordinating Honor Flight South Alabama. A native of Charleston, West Virginia, Booth worked his way through college and dental school, graduating from Auburn University and the University of Alabama School of Dentistry. He served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy and spent time in Vietnam, attached to the Marine Corps. Booth is a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Sons of the American Revolution and a life member of the American Legion Post 199 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. In 2005 Governor Bob Riley appointed Booth to the USS Alabama Battleship Commission and he also serves on the Spanish Fort Education Enrichment Foundation. For several years Booth participated in the United States Naval Academy’s recruitment program and continues to be an active supporter of ROTC programs at area high schools.

The Honor Flight presentation admission is free and light refreshments will be served. Seating is limited, please RSVP to 928-5413. The Hamlet is located at 214 Windsor Drive North in Fairhope, Ala, ½ mile south of Thomas Hospital on the east side of HWY 98. For more information please visit MercyMedical.com.

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