The Los Banos FFA was deeply honored to attend the recent Honor Flight homecoming where the Veterans had flown into the Fresno airport, where they welcomed home countless veterans returning from service. 

This powerful and emotional tradition began in 2016, during the FFA’s annual leadership trip to the nation’s capital. 

While visiting the Navy Memorial, students witnessed an Honor Flight return and were moved by the experience. Inspired by that moment,  Mr. Jason Bretz, Mr. Jim Orr, and Mr. Don Baker decided the chapter should take responsibility for supporting veterans’ trips.

 In 2017, Los Banos FFA hosted its first Pasta Drive-Thru Dinner, raising $20,000 to help send veterans to visit the memorials built in their honor. Since then, the event has become an annual tradition—except for 2021, when it was paused due to COVID-19, and has raised at least $20,000 each year.

In 2020, the FFA extended its outreach by donating $2,000 to the Blue Star Moms, an organization supporting active-duty service members. Without their sacrifices, this country would not be safe. This contribution has grown and to-date, at the last Pasta dinner on March 10th 2025, FFA has raised a remarkable $180,000 for Honor Flight and donated $10,000 to Blue Star Moms. 

These efforts reflect the immense gratitude the Los Banos community holds for its veterans and service members. Many of these heroes were not properly thanked when they returned home.

The FFA’s ongoing support ensures they are honored, appreciated, and remembered. This mission is more than just a fundraiser, it’s a heartfelt tribute to those who sacrificed so much for our freedom.