​​Honoring Heroes: Inland NW Honor Flight Gala & Casino Night

Returning February 20 to support veterans across the Inland Northwest

By Taylor Shillam

This month, the Inland Northwest community will come together for an evening of celebration, remembrance, and purpose at the 4th Annual Inland NW Honor Flight Gala & Casino Night, held at The Centennial Hotel in Spokane on February 20. More than just a night of dinner and entertainment, the event plays a vital role in supporting Inland Northwest Honor Flight’s mission to honor local veterans through life-changing trips to Washington, D.C.

Inland Northwest Honor Flight is a regional hub of the national Honor Flight Network and has been serving veterans since its founding in May 2009. Its mission is both simple and profound: to transport Inland Northwest war veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials dedicated to honoring their service and sacrifice. While applications are welcomed from World War II and Korean War veterans, the majority of participants today are Vietnam War veterans, served on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to veterans facing terminal illness.

“At the heart of Inland Northwest Honor Flight is expressing gratitude to the brave men and women who served during times of conflict,” shares Event Coordinator Jill Wheatley. “Every veteran we serve is treated with honor and respect, no matter where or how they served.”

This year’s Gala & Casino Night promises an evening filled with energy and connection. Guests can enjoy a full dinner, a variety of casino and amusement games, and live music by the Kevin Shay Band, alongside heartfelt stories that capture the spirit of hope and healing at the center of the Honor Flight experience.

The impact of community support at events like this goes far beyond the ballroom. For many veterans, participating in an Honor Flight can be an emotional and transformative experience. Some arrive with apprehension, anxiety, or feelings of unworthiness, unsure if their service merits recognition. Others are revisiting memories they’ve carried silently for decades.

“The experience emphasizes the importance of giving veterans space to share their stories, connect with fellow service members, and find closure,” Jill explains. “For many, it’s a moment of reflection, remembrance, and shared camaraderie that brings real healing.”

Each Honor Flight is made possible through donations, fundraising, and the dedication of volunteers, guardians, counselors, and medical staff who ensure veterans can participate at no financial cost. Recently, the organization also welcomed a support dog named Isaac, who provides comfort to veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress or anxiety during their journey.

For those involved behind the scenes, one of the most powerful moments comes from hearing veterans reflect on their experience. “Seeing the transformation is nothing short of a miracle,” Jill shares. “Their stories are heartbreaking and incredibly encouraging.”

The 4th Annual Inland NW Honor Flight Gala & Casino Night is a meaningful opportunity to honor those who served, ensure their stories are remembered, and help provide moments of long-overdue recognition and healing.

Community members interested in attending or supporting the event can find tickets and event details at INWHonorflight.org/Gala. Guests also have the option to take advantage of a discounted room rate at The Centennial Hotel and make a weekend of the experience.