OhioHealth Supports Honor Flight for Local Veterans, CEO Serves Among Guardians

On April 15, OhioHealth sponsored Honor Flight Columbus Mission 150, giving local veterans a chance to travel to Washington, D.C. and visit the memorials built in their honor. The day-long trip meant time to reflect and connect with fellow service members who understood their stories and the lasting bonds of service.

Supporting them every step of the way were four OhioHealth guardians, including OhioHealth president and CEO Stephen Markovich, MD—himself a veteran who retired as a major general and Commander of the Ohio Air National Guard—and members of the organization’s Veterans Business Resource Group. Eight other OhioHealth senior leaders volunteered as guardian assistants.

“I cannot tell you how many times today I shed a tear,” Dr. Markovich said. “It was exciting to be part of this. To recognize the veterans, many of whom are in the twilight of their lives as they got to experience something they perhaps didn't get to when they first came back.”

As their flight landed at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, they were met with a crowd of family, friends and more than 100 OhioHealth associates and leaders cheering, waving flags and lining the terminal to welcome them back.

“To see the veterans surrounded by their families, the Honor Flight team and our OhioHealth associates was incredibly meaningful,” said Karen Morrison, president of the OhioHealth Foundation and senior vice president, OhioHealth. “It’s a powerful example of what partnership can do to create real momentum around honoring those who have served, and we are proud to be part of that effort.”

It was the kind of moment many veterans had waited decades to experience.

“The veterans were blown away,” Dr. Markovich said. “It was so great to see our people right up front. I couldn't have been prouder.”

Among those on the flight was Ray DeGraw, a United States Army veteran who described the experience as unforgettable.

“There's always a bond with veterans, and to spend a day together and be able to talk and visit places is really special,” he said. “I cannot thank Honor Flight enough, how they put this together, and OhioHealth. We appreciate it. I know I do, and I think everybody on that flight too.”

As both a veteran and a guardian, Dr. Markovich said it was a chance to support others while reflecting on his own service.

“It’s the emotion of the event. Seeing the Vietnam Wall, the memorials, the rows at Arlington. It’s breathtaking,” he said. “It’s a reminder to recognize those who didn’t make it back and honor the sacrifices that made this country what it is.”

To learn more about Honor Flight Columbus, click here.