Cruise line to honour US military when Carnival Freedom arrives in her new Galveston homeport
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Carnival Cruise Line is to mark Carnival Freedom’s arrival at her new year-round homeport of Galveston, Texas, with a celebration honouring US military families.
Taking place on 14 February, the celebrations have been organised in collaboration with national non-profit organisation Operation Homefront, which was developed to provide financial and other assistance to military families.
Carnival will host more than 250 travel agents, service members and their families onboard the ship during the celebrations.
“The arrival of Carnival Freedom to its new Galveston homeport is historic as it marks the first time a cruise line has based three year-round ships in Texas,” said Jim Berra, chief marketing officer for Carnival Cruise Line. “We’re thrilled to celebrate this occasion by giving back to the great state of Texas and welcoming aboard military families who make our freedom possible.”
Military families who have registered through Operation Homefront will enjoy a full day and evening onboard the 110,000gt ship while she is in port, receiving complimentary overnight accommodations, meals, entertainment and activities.
Prior to the concert, Carnival will present a cheque for US$100,000 to Operation Homefront.
“We are very excited to be partnering with Carnival to honour military families and celebrate the cruise line’s expansion in Texas,” said Tim Farrell, COO of Operation Homefront. “While we serve military families across the nation, we’re grateful for a partner like Carnival who wants to give back right here in our home state of Texas where we have the second largest active duty and veteran population in the country.”
As part of the festivities, 14-time Grammy nominee Martina McBride will perform on Carnival Freedom’s top deck. The country singer has previously performed as part of the line’s onboard concert series, Carnival LIVE.
“I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to perform again on a Carnival ship and am thrilled that I was chosen to be part of this wonderful event that honours US service members and their families,” said McBride. “I’ve played for many audiences in my career, but it will truly be a privilege to salute these incredible families and partner with Carnival to bring them an extra special Valentine’s Day.”