World War II Vet Frank Manchel Dies On Return Trip From Honor Flight

World War II Veteran, Frank Manchel Has Died At The Age Of 95 During The Return Trip From Honor Flight.

On Sunday, the World War II veteran, Frank Manchel died on his flight home to California after a weekend Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C. He was 95 years old.

Frank was abroad the chartered American Airlines jet when he collapsed. He died around an hour before the plane landed in San Diego. Many people on the flight tried to resuscitate him before pronouncing him dead.

 Frank’s son, Bruce Manchel, broke the news revealing “The fella who caught my dad came up to me and said, 'Listen, your dad, within 5 seconds of having him in my arms was gone”

Bruce in a statement also revealed that his father was extremely excited to go on his Honor Flight because he was able to be with his sons and met his 93 years old brother in Washington. D.C.

He added:

My father’s pa s sing was the ending to the most amazing weekend, surrounded by his newest best friends. We thank all of you – Honor Flight San Diego, American Airlines, San Diego International Airport, friends, and supporters for your concern and for allowing the weekend to be so special for all of us to share together.

Before his death, Frank enjoyed the weekend on a trip sponsored by Honor Flight San Diego in Washington, D.C. The Honor Flight San Diego is a part of a large organization that offers all expenses paid travel for the veterans.

After Frank died, the other pa s sengers draped an American flag over him. The veterans stopped and saluted his body before stepping off the plane on Sunday.