JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — The Honor Flight of the Appalachian Highlands organized the second annual “Paddles Up for Veterans” Dragon Boat Race on Saturday at Winged Deer Park.

Funds generated from “Paddles Up for Veterans” will be used to sponsor an Honor Flight trip allowing veterans to travel to Washington, DC, to see memorials. This three-day excursion is entirely free for veterans, as the chapter covers the costs for food, hotel, and transportation.

Michelle Stewart, president of Honor Flight Appalachian Highlands, said 17 teams competed in this year’s race.

“This event is one of our key fundraisers,” she said. “It provides an opportunity to engage with our community while also generating the funds needed to take veterans to DC.”

Stewart said each team consisted of 21 paddlers.