Today the Patriot Guard had the honor to assist Gold Star Families with their journey on the Snowball Express.

CAN YOU EVEN BEGIN TO IMAGINE THE PAIN OF A 4-YEAR-OLD AFTER HER DADDY DIES?

The mission of Snowball Express, an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, is to help create new memories and a few days of joy for lives that have been shattered by the loss of their fallen hero. It is America’s chance to give a gift of gratitude to the children and spouses of those men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice since September 11, 2001.

Snowball Express started just last year, and last December we flew 900 grieving family members from all across America to Southern California for an unforgettable holiday party. Kids and widows discovered they weren’t alone. And they found they weren’t forgotten.

It was a totally volunteer effort which came together in just a few months to create the largest all-expense-paid gathering for the families of our fallen warriors since 9/11.

This was an incredible day spent with a group of people who have given so much. I’d have to say this has been one of the most enjoyable missions yet with Patriot Guard. American Airlines did an amazing job welcoming the families. From a special check in counter to a separate security gate with escorts to the AA Club with entertainment and food for all. The balloon guy was a hit with the kids and adults. I was told that AA had 3 jets departing from different areas of the country with each making 4 stops to pickup families on their way to California. Patriot Guard assisted the families from the parking lot to check-in, from check-in through security and from there to the AA Club. I was one of the lucky ones to help in the AA Club. My pup in a bag was a sure hit with the kids, Moms and Airline employees. She got lots of hugs and gave lots of kisses.

I’ve got too many photos but managed to whittle it down to TEN.

You have to go to the Snowball Express site and see the photos from last years event. They spend a day at the Oakley Corporate campus where they had all sorts of events and people there to entertain. Then a day at Disneyland. We’ll be back on Monday to welcome the tired crew home.  A huge thank you to American Airlines - your employees rock!

Technorati Tags: Snowball Express, Gold Star Moms, Support the troops, military, Patriot Guard