Princess Cruises Joins USA Vietnam War Commemoration as Partner

In a special ceremony coinciding with Armed Forces Day today, Princess Cruises was officially recognized as a commemorative partner of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration. Major General James T. Jackson (U.S. Army, retired), pictured here, presented a commemorative flag and certificate from the Secretary of Defense to Princess Cruises President and CEO Alan Buckelew, a Vietnam veteran himself, to mark the occasion.

The cruise line is being recognized as a commemorative partner in this program, created by the Department of Defense, in part because of activities saluting veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces during Princess’ first-ever fundraising cruise. The sailing is expected to generate $1 million for two organizations committed to U.S. veterans—Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Inc. and Operation Homefront Inc. The 4-day cruise sails from Houston November 5.

More than 100 Princess employees were in attendance at the special celebration, including many Vietnam veterans, veterans from other conflicts, and military family members. Local student cadets from Valencia High School’s Jr. Air Force ROTC opened the program with the presentation of the colors.

“This is an important partnership for us at Princess, and as a veteran, it’s also a cause near and dear to my heart,” said Alan Buckelew, Princess president and CEO. “Like many Vietnam veterans, I don’t talk about my experience much, so I understand the importance of recognizing those who served as we mark the war’s 50th anniversary.”

The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration is a national program conducted under the leadership of the Department of Defense to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. The national program will include activities to thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War—including those held as prisoners of war or listed as missing in action—for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the U.S. and to thank and honor the families of these veterans. As a commemorative partner, Princess Cruises will conduct activities to recognize Vietnam Veterans for their service, valor and sacrifice. To learn more about the national commemorative program, visit vietnamwar50th.com.

Princess’ first-ever cruise to support U.S. veterans will feature a number of special guests including former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Michael Mullen (Ret.); retired senior officers from the Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force; an award-winning war correspondent; and other respected speakers, authors and panelists. More information and the latest line-up of special guests can be found at princess.com/cruisingforacause.

The Western Caribbean cruise will sail November 5-9, 2013 roundtrip from Houston aboard Caribbean Princess, with a call at Progreso, Mexico. The 4-day cruise will offer passengers the opportunity to honor those who have served in the military as well as active duty military personnel. In addition to the line-up of impressive military guests and speakers, there will be special performers, celebrities, unique topic panels and a military film festival. Princess will feature custom-design onboard activities such as a Stars and Stripes Sailaway; a military themed show; a Red, White and Blue Gala; and more–to celebrate US veterans.

A portion of each passenger’s cruise fare totaling approximately $500,000 will be matched by Princess Cruises for a total of $1 million earmarked for the two veterans’ organizations to share equally. As part of Princess’ ongoing Military Cruise Benefit Program, active and retired military personnel choosing to book this cruise will receive a $50 onboard credit. Additional information about the special “Cruising for a Cause” sailing supporting U.S. veterans can be found at princess.com/cruisingforacause.

Image Courtesy of Princess Cruises