On April 25, 2026, we had the honor of hosting the Fly With Korean War Veterans event at Kershaw County Airport in Camden, South Carolina – bringing together veterans, families, and community members for a truly memorable day.

With over 350 attendees, the event served as a powerful tribute to the men and women who served during the Korean War. We were honored to welcome two U.S. Congressmen and coverage from two local television stations (News 19 WTLX and WIS 10 TV), helping shine a broader spotlight on the importance of recognizing these veterans and preserving their stories.

A highlight of the day was the Korean War Veteran Recognition Ceremony, where a color guard presented the flags, creating a moving and respectful moment that brought the entire crowd together in honor of those who served.

Throughout the day, Korean War veterans and attendees participated in free flights aboard World War II-era aircraft, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. These flights, combined with meaningful conversations and shared stories from the veterans, created lasting memories for all who attended.

“So many of these guys don’t get recognized,” Mantei said. “We have a whole generation of people growing up that don’t even know anything about the military. They don’t understand the sacrifices, all it takes to keep this country free. I’m trying to get as many young children as many people out here so they can learn before these guys are gone.”

This event gave us the opportunity to recognize and celebrate Korean War veterans – many of whom have not always received the recognition they deserve. It was a day filled with gratitude, connection, and reflection.

Looking ahead, we plan to continue this mission with a Vietnam veteran event next year, further expanding our efforts to honor those who served and ensure their stories are shared with future generations.

We are proud to have hosted such a meaningful event and remain committed to honoring veterans while bringing communities together through impactful initiatives.