BISMARCK (KXNET) — The Mandan Eagles Club was packed last night as the community came together to support local veterans. Western North Dakota Honor Flight hosted a silent auction, followed by a live auction, raising over $35,000 to fund future trips for veterans to Washington, D.C. The silent auction featured more than 100 items, while the live auction included 14 big-ticket items. All proceeds will help send veterans to visit the memorials built in their honor. Each Honor Flight lasts two days, departing on a Sunday and returning Monday night. Organizers say the trips are short but meaningful, offering veterans a chance to see memorials and connect with other service members. Minot Mayor encourages residents to display blue lights for officers "We give them a completely different experience," Western ND Honor Flight President Dennis L. Burdolski said." They go, and they're with people they may have been stationed with they don't know at a large base that they were there at the same time, and then they bond together." "You'll see people create friendships that go beyond the Honor Flight, which is really a neat result," Burdolski added. Veterans are selected based on when they sign up, but those over 80 or with terminal illnesses are given priority. Since the program began, 520 veterans from western North Dakota have taken the trip. The next group is scheduled to depart in April. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW