Ascentra Credit Union just wrote a $20,000 check to make the first-ever Quad City Back the Blue Flight a reality, and honestly, it’s a pretty cool concept.
The program works like this: local law enforcement officers—both the ones still on the beat and those who’ve hung up their badges—get an all-expenses-paid day trip to Washington, D.C. We’re talking chartered airfare, meals, transportation, the works. The itinerary includes visits to the National Police Officers Memorial Wall and Museum, the Capitol, the National Spy Museum, and other landmarks that tell the story of service and sacrifice.
But here’s the part that really matters: each flight will also include a family member of a local officer killed in the line of duty. It’s a way to make sure fallen heroes aren’t just remembered in theory, but honored alongside the colleagues who knew them best.
When It’s Happening
The inaugural flight takes off from Quad City International Airport on the morning of September 9th. Participants will spend the day visiting memorials and museums that give officers a chance to reflect, connect with fellow law enforcement professionals, and pay respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Law enforcement officers protect our communities with courage and selflessness,” said Linda Andry, President and CEO of Ascentra Credit Union. “We are proud to help support the launch of a program that recognizes those serving our communities; past, present, and future.”
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t just a one-and-done situation. Quad City Back the Blue Flight has its sights set on making this an ongoing program, with the long-term goal of getting as many active and retired officers to Washington as possible. They’re also working to raise awareness about the challenges local law enforcement faces—because supporting police doesn’t stop at a single flight, no matter how meaningful.
“Back the Blue Flight will make a profound impact on the lives of our officers,” said Greg Keller, board president of Quad City Back the Blue Flight. “Thanks to Ascentra’s generosity and leadership, we are able to honor those who serve and remember those who gave everything.”
It’s a solid example of what community support can look like when organizations step up with both funding and intention. Sometimes the best way to say “thank you for your service” is to create an experience that actually honors what that service means.