Norwegian Cruise Line, in collaboration with Coca-Cola, paid tribute to more than 40 Gold Star as part of the 600 Miles of Remembrance at the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
“Gold Star” is a designation given to the family of an active service member who died in the line of duty.
The Coca-Cola 600th anniversary celebration, held over Memorial Day weekend, honored military personnel and their families with activities that included a special luncheon for the Gold Star families. NCL President David Herrera , a U.S. Army National Guard veteran, presented each family with a complimentary seven-day cruise.
“ It is a pleasure to demonstrate this support with our Military Recognition Program and offer [military families] the opportunity to reconnect aboard our ships and create memories that will last a lifetime ,” Herrera said . “ This program was designed for veterans by NCL veterans. These Gold Star families have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and it is our privilege to recognize them and provide them with respite aboard our ships .”
In November, NCL announced the launch of its Military Recognition Program to honor U.S. service members, veterans, and retired military personnel and their spouses with special onboard experiences, services, and cruise fare discounts. The program was co-sponsored by Herrera along with former U.S. Navy SEAL Matthew Lewis, Senior Vice President and Chief Safety Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
