ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – For the 3rd time teams of up to 10 people took over downtown Escanaba and went head to head to see who could pull a semi truck down the street the fastest.
You might think it’s crazy for a team of middle aged people wearing Iron maiden t-shirts and carhartts to volunteer for the task. But for the men and women who competed in Pulling for Honor over the weekend it made perfect sense.
“It brings the community together,” remarked U.P. Honor Flight president Scott Knauf, in fact he said seeing the community rally to support the flights is his favorite part of the event.
The pull is raising money for the U.P. Honor Flight which gives veterans the chance to go see war memorials at the nation’s capital. Each of the 12 teams that participated donated $500 which goes directly back to the honor flights.
“It’s the least we could do honestly, you know pull a truck and raise some money” remarked Ben Johnson, a student at Escanaba High School who was competing with his Football teammates.
Teams were made up of local businesses and community organizations, Escanaba high schools football team fielded 3 teams, something they’ve done since the event began.
“Last year we won it so we’re gonna have to come back next year,” added Johnson. He says even though he will be out of highschool next summer he plans on organizing an independent team and competing in the Pull.
Each U.P. Honor Flight costs around $135,000 dollars. events like this are crucial for the organization to operate. Without the community support the flights would not be possible.
“Last year I believe this event raised about $12,000,” commented Knauf when asked about the impact the event has.
The U.P. Honor Flight also has other fundraisers currently going on. In Marquette County they are auctioning off a custom coffee table. The raffle winner will be drawn on November 11th.
To find out how you can get a ticket online, message the U.P. Honor Flight on Facebook by clicking here.
