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Washington, D.C.- Congressman Kildee unveiled a new website today that allows frequent fliers to donate their miles to help troops returning from Iraq. Kildee joined Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) in supporting the “Operation Hero Miles” program to help soldiers reach their hometowns while they are on military leave.
“This program will provide Americans with an opportunity to help our troops spend their limited and precious time off with their families,” said Kildee. “We should use this opportunity to show our continued support for our brave men and women in uniform. This program will help troops maximize their time with their family and provide them with a chance to relax and rest in the comfort of their own homes. I encourage every frequent flier to generously donate some of their miles to help reunite our troops with their families.”
In September 2003, the Pentagon started giving soldiers stationed in Iraq two-week leaves in the largest rest and relaxation program since the Vietnam War. Currently, soldiers can fly to Germany or Baltimore Washington International Airport for free, but they are responsible for additional flights to other destinations. Unfortunately, returning soldiers often have to purchase high-priced, last minute airline tickets in order to reach their loved ones.
The “Operation Hero Miles” program was specifically developed to help alleviate the costs associated with making last minute travel arrangements. This program provides people with an opportunity to help American troops travel home to be with their families. Several airline companies have also decided to participate in the program by donating additional miles and making it easier for their frequent fliers to transfer their miles. Delta Airlines has already donated 10 million miles to the program, which are enough miles for 400 round trip tickets. Kildee is encouraging other airlines to follow Delta’s example by donating more miles to the program.
Frequent fliers interested in participating in this program are encouraged to visit Congressman Kildee’s website at www.house.gov/kildee. There is a direct link to the “Operation Hero Miles” Program on the bottom of Congressman Kildee’s homepage. |
