Aviation Nigeria
All aboard! Snowball Express will soon be on its way. Beginning Friday, Nov. 30, more than 1,700 children and spouses of fallen military will once again travel to North Texas, arriving via American Airlines and American Eagle flights for Snowball Express – an all-expense-paid visit to the Dallas/Fort Worth area. The seventh annual event runs through Tuesday, Dec. 4. Snowball Express is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization established in 2006 with the mission of bringing hope, joy and new memories to children who have lost a parent on active duty since Sept. 11, 2001.
As the official airline of Snowball Express, American and American Eagle are donating nine chartered aircraft and providing free travel on selected commercial flights for families traveling from 54 cities across the United States, as well as international locations including Puerto Rico and Guam.
"All of us at American Airlines and American Eagle are humbled by the sacrifices these families have made for our great nation," said Tom Horton, American's Chairman and CEO. "Snowball Express honors the memory of the men and women who so bravely served our country. It is a privilege for us, especially our hundreds of volunteers, to once again bring these families to Dallas/Fort Worth – our hometown – for a few days of fun and the opportunity to find new friendships and memories."
The Snowball Express flights are made possible by the American Airlines Kids In NeedSM program, which provides worldwide support for children and their families, and for organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life for children. Airfare for some families will be provided by the nonprofit organization Air Compassion for Veterans, which is funded in part through a partnership with Fuel Smart, American's employee-led fuel conservation program. In keeping with its continued work to support families of the fallen, the USO (United Service Organizations) Warrior and Family Care provided a grant for this year's Snowball Express.
"While many of us look forward to the holiday season with excitement and anticipation of time with family and friends, the holidays can be difficult for those who have lost a loved one – especially the families of fallen military," said Francis "Buck" Kern, Executive Director and CEO of Snowball Express. "We're thankful for the support from American Airlines to help bring joy and healing to these children and spouses whose lives have been forever changed by the loss of their loved one."
People from American and American Eagle will host special send-off receptions at each of the departure airports. Festivities will include holiday decorations at gates and onboard aircraft, refreshments and entertainment, and even visits from Santa Claus.
Upon arrival at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Snowball Express families will be greeted at "American Candy Land," which will feature decorated gates that will include holiday crafts, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, and colorful treats in keeping with the theme.
Among this year's Snowball Express events are a visit to the AT&T Performing Arts Center for the annual tree-lighting celebration; participation in the Dallas Children's Parade; a trip to Six Flags Over Texas; and a private concert by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band at Billy Bob's, the famed Texas honkytonk in the Fort Worth Stockyards.
To learn more about Snowball Express sponsorship opportunities, or to view a complete list of corporate and nonprofit sponsors, visit SnowballExpress.org. Additional information can also be found at AA.com/JoinUs.
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