CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The families of fallen soldiers got a trip to remember on Saturday.
American Airlines teamed up with the Gary Sinise Foundation to fly families to Walt Disney World in Orlando. The families took off in the "Snowball Express" from Charlotte Douglas International Airport on Saturday morning and will get to spend five days honoring their loved ones while making new memories.
Organizers said this can "help families be resilient, especially at a time of year when many families feel alone." The families traveled on 21 charter aircraft donated to the effort by American Airlines.
"It's one of the most special times of year for us, but it's a great opportunity," Michael Wanner with American Airlines said. "I think what people don't understand is the crews, the flight attendants, a lot of -- all volunteer their time to make these trips happen. So it's a real special time for us to give back."
This year, the foundation is hosting 1,700 families from over 90 cities across the country.