(COLORADO SPRINGS) — American Airlines and the Gary Sinise Foundation (GSF) hosted more than 1,700 family members of fallen heroes at the GSF Snowball Express Annual Event at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.

On Saturday, Dec. 7, families traveled on more than 20 donated American Airlines charter aircraft staffed with all-volunteer crews from across the country to fly participants from more than 90 cities, including Colorado Springs, to the special retreat and healing experience in Orlando.

The trip is meant to give families of fallen military members and first responders the chance to enjoy a healing vacation together. Throughout the five-day Snowball Express Disney experience, family members can honor their fallen loved one while cultivating relationships and making special memories together in a warm, welcoming, inclusive environment.