OPERATION RIDE HOME
The Armed Services YMCA of Hawaii knows a thing or two about isolation. Though an island paradise, Hawaii is far from home for service members and military families, and being separated by an ocean’s distance means there are no easy roads to get them home. For 2021, the ASYMCA of Hawaii saw over 500 applications from junior enlisted service members to Jack Daniel’s Operation Ride Home, a travel assistance program that helps send troops home for the holidays. With the enormous support of Jack Daniel’s and a huge boost from American Airlines and other local partners, the ASYMCA of Hawaii reunited hundreds of families this holiday season.
Here are some stories from our military families:
I am very thankful to you for helping me go home for Christmas. I got the chance to see my grandpa who has cancer and might not have much longer to live. That was a blessing to visit him since I will probably not get to see him again. Again thank you for this opportunity. It was a very nice vacation at home.”
It’s been a long two years since I’ve seen my family. It warms my heart to be able to enjoy the holidays back home. God Bless you all and this fantastic program. I cannot thank you enough. As a soldier, it means the world to me that people still care for us and wish us good tidings during the holiday season.
To learn more about the programs and services available though the Armed Services YMCA of Hawaii, please visit their website here.
