A WWII veteran on Honor Flight San Diego was laid to rest Thursday in Detroit, Michigan. Honor Flight San Diego said Frank Manchel, 95, collapsed and passed away during the return flight to San Diego surrounded by his military brothers.
Manchel was visiting the memorials with Honor Flight and his 93-year-old WWII brother Jerome "Jerry" Manchel who flew down from Michigan to participate in the tour of honor together. He was a tech sergeant in the U.S. Army and was a cryptographer. News 8's Abbie Alford and photographer Mike Edison were embedded in the flight and interviewed the Manchel brothers at the WWII memorial on Saturday, May 4. Frank Manchel said he was enjoying the trip, "I think it’s terrific, it’s something you don't see that often.” This was Manchel's first time visiting the WWII memorial, which was finished in 2004 and had just celebrated it 15th anniversary.
"I think it's very important because it's not for us, but it's for the rest of the world,” said Manchel.
Manchel’s son was his guardian and during the flight and shared this message:
"Frank Manchel was so excited to go on the Honor Flight. To be with both of his sons, as well as his 93-year-old brother was so special. My father’s passing was the ending to the most amazing weekend, surrounded by his newest best friends. We thank all of you for your concern and for allowing this weekend to be so special for all of us to share together. Frank passed peacefully and quickly, and the compassion and respect that was shown to our family will be treasured always. The admiration that was given to him and his brother on the streets of Washington D.C. was something to behold. I was honored to have been part of this weekend. Thank you all. May he rest in peace. He is now with his other beloved son Jimmy."