Honoring First Responder Families at the Holidays: Snowball Express Part 2

The Gary Sinise Foundation was honored to welcome nearly 1,000 surviving children and spouses/guardians of our nation’s Fallen First Responders to this year’s Snowball Express annual event. Known to families as “Disney in December,” this event is a magical and heartfelt experience filled with community, connection, and holiday spirit.

The journey began at airports nationwide, where our presenting sponsor, American Airlines, transformed departure gates into festive winter wonderlands. Families were greeted by cheerful elves who escorted them to their gates and enjoyed crafts, breakfast, and camaraderie before boarding their chartered flights to Orlando, Florida and Walt Disney World Resort.

Upon arrival, families were honored with a water cannon salute - a gesture that holds special significance for First Responders, symbolizing respect and tribute to their sacrifices. As they disembarked, the local Patriot Guard Riders and Pipe and Drum Corps welcomed them to Florida with flags, Christmas carols, and magical movie tunes.

Once settled in, families explored the Snowball Express lounges - safe and welcoming spaces for kids, teens, and parents/guardians to connect with others who are walking a similar path of grief and healing - and having some fun while they are at it! These moments of connection are so important as no one understands their unique grief journey like one another. In the lounges, children and adults alike can foster bonds that will extend far beyond the event itself.

Adding to the excitement, Reedy Creek, Walt Disney World’s dedicated First Responders, provided truck tours, showcased emergency vehicles, and gave children the chance to try on uniforms similar to those worn by their fallen hero. It was a truly memorable experience, reinforcing the heroism and community spirit that defines our nation’s First Responders.

Another special feature of this year’s Snowball Express was a room filled with patches from First Responder precincts and firehouses across the nation. Children could collect and trade these patches, a cherished tradition in the first responder community that symbolizes service, connection, and pride.

Additionally, the Patriot Guard Riders provided custom vests, allowing children to display their patch collections proudly. This activity celebrated the unique bond within the first responder community and offers families a tangible way to honor their fallen heroes while creating new, meaningful memories.

A highlight of the week was the Walk of Gratitude, where families made their way down Main Street, USA, cheered on by Disney cast members and volunteers and supported, once again, by Reedy Creek First Responders. Upon arrival at Cinderella’s Castle, and with a little bit of Disney Magic, families sent messages up to the skies for their fallen heroes. As Fire Department Honor Guard Commander, Scott Underwood, said, “This is one of the most impactful events I’m involved with year-round.”

In the Remembrance Garden, an American Flag stands for each fallen hero whose family was in attendance. Families entered the sacred space to honor their First Responder, leave notes of love and gratitude, and reflect on the cherished memories and legacy of their loved ones. These quiet moments amidst the festivities served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by these heroes and their families.

The week’s energy soared with a rocking performance by Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band. Families danced, laughed, and celebrated together at EPCOT, welcomed by Patriot Guard Riders and a red-carpet entrance. From rock hits to Disney tunes, the band brought everyone to their feet for an evening of fun and community.

From magical park days to evenings filled with laughter and light, these moments allowed our Families of Fallen Heroes to create new memories while honoring the past. As one mom stated, “I’m so glad that Uncle Gary does this for us, this is the hardest time of the year for my family and there is nowhere else we would rather be. It truly means so much.” The healing power of shared experiences was evident in every hug, smile, and conversation throughout the week.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our presenting sponsor, American Airlines, and to the many corporate and individual sponsors that made this event possible including Amazon, American Tire Distributors, Grainger, Owens Corning, Regal, Sunbelt, and Disney. Your generosity ensures that we can continue to uplift these families and honor the sacrifices of their loved ones.

This event is a testament to the Foundation’s mission of serving those who serve and sacrifice. Together, we ensure that these families are never alone on their journey of healing. Click here to learn more about the work the Gary Sinise Foundation is doing with our nation’s Families of Fallen and to donate today.