WASHINGTON -- Christmas is coming early for the more than 1,700 children and family members of fallen U.S. military heroes preparing to board the “Snowball Express” to Orlando, Florida.
The holiday season can be tough for families who have lost a parent or spouse. Gary Sinise Foundation’s Snowball Express was created to provide a holiday retreat and healing experience for children and surviving parents of fallen U.S. military heroes.
Representatives said the program allows families “the opportunity to bond and make new memories with the only ones who truly understand their loss- each other."
Snowball Express, along with sponsor American Airlines, began providing charter flights to pick up the families as they head to an all-expense paid retreat to the most magical place on Earth, Disney World. The airline offered 12 flights making stops in more than 20 cities across the nation.
One of the chartered flights began Saturday morning at D.C.’s Reagan National Airport. Before the families took off at 11:30 a.m., they enjoyed an Incredibles-themed send-off with falling snow, cars and balloons.
Children were also able to make Christmas ornaments, get glitter tattoos and get balloon animals before their flight.
Officials said the annual retreat will take place from Saturday, December 8 until Wednesday, December 12.
