When Shirley McGann sent out an e-mail alerting her United Service Organization Puget Sound Area volunteers of the opportunity to volunteer at the yearly Snowball Express event, the response she received was overwhelming.
"I had about 30 who wanted to do it but I could only take 12," said McGann, who manages the USOPSA's location at Sea-Tac Airport. "Many of those who volunteer want to do it every year."
The first 12 volunteers who responded to her e-mail got the chance to participate this year. Snowball Express, a partnership between American Airlines, SnowballExpress.org and USOPSA, sends military children (and spouses) who have lost a parent serving on active-duty military service, on an all-expenses paid holiday vacation. This year's trip sent the group to Six Flags Amusement Park in Dallas, Texas, from Dec. 9 to 13.
"USO Puget Sound Area is all about supporting our local military families and we are honored to play a role in Snowball Express," Don Leingang, USPSA executive director, said in a release. "Sending these children and spouses to Six Flags for the holidays may in some form help these families escape the pain of missing loved ones."
A group of about 54 spouses and children gathered Dec. 9 at Sea-Tac at 4:30 a.m. to board the plane to Texas. The group from the Puget Sound region met up with families of fallen heroes from across the country in Dallas.
They were given an elaborate sendoff Dec. 9 before boarding the airplane. USOPSA volunteers dressed as elves greeted families at the curb and guided them throughout their entire route through the airport.
"The airport even set up a security line especially for the Snowball Express," McGann said.
The pre-flight celebration included a ballerina performing a portion of The Nutcracker Suite, and the group was served refreshments and gifts from Santa and Mrs. Claus, played by Leingang and his wife, Misty. Former Seattle Mariners pitcher Jamie Moyer and his wife, Karen, both representing the Moyer Foundation, also participated, dressing up as elves and bringing holiday cheer to the families.
Families also walked through an elaborate winter castle display to get to the departure gate.
"We are thrilled that we will once again be able to count on the support of the USO to assist us with our Snowball Express families," Susan Payne-Rao, Seattle Snowball Express coordinator for American Airlines said in a release.
Snowball Express started in 2006 with the goal of provide hope and new memories to the children of military fallen heroes who have died while on active duty since 9/11. In December of 2006, nearly 900 family members from all across America and the world gathered in Southern California for an unforgettable holiday gathering.
In 2009, 1,500 attendees came to Dallas for Snowball Express IV. The event was held in Dallas for the first time and American Airlines provided eight charter flights for families. The families enjoyed a day at Southfork Ranch and an evening at the Mesquite Rodeo, an interactive day at the Dallas Convention Center capped off by a concert by Jeff Senour and the CTS Band. The final day was spent at the new Cowboy's Stadium in Arlington, Texas, featuring a concert by Gary Sinese and his Lt. Dan Band.
SEE THESE STORIES TOO
Troops still fear to report PTSD
Wine Rack stores donate to military families
Read Comments