As Gold Star families arrived at Norfolk International Airport on Dec. 7 to board the Snowball Express, they were warmly greeted by more than 280 service members and community volunteers from the Hampton Roads area.

The annual Snowball Express event began in 2006 with a letter written by a fallen soldier to his wife, only to be opened should he perish in battle.

While the letter expressed many hopes, one wish was that they visit Disneyland.

Inspired by the letter, Snowball Express was created to bring together the children and surviving spouses of fallen U.S. military heroes for a healing retreat.

“Although bittersweet, we are so thankful to have this experience,” Gold Star spouse Rebecca Headings said. “I am very grateful for the experience but even more thankful to be surrounded by people who understand what we are going through.”

Petty Officer 2nd Class Josiah Prewitt of Seymour participated in welcoming the families for the annual event.

“This gives me the opportunity to show my appreciation for what their loved ones have done for us and their sacrifices,” he said.

As the families arrived for the trip, the terminal was decorated from top to bottom in balloons, games, crafts, Disney characters and even a surprise visit from Santa.

“It was important for me to be to support these families, support the kids and let them know as an elected official, I want to do my duty and service to make sure they have all the resources they need to be successful,” Virginia Beach Councilman Aaron Rouse said. “I also want them realize that as a community, we support them.”

The families stay in Disney for four days, and American Airlines chartered flights with all volunteer crews to make stops in more than 20 cities to make this happen.

According to American Airlines, 1,750 snowball passengers flew on 13 chartered American Airlines aircraft to Orlando.

During the trip, families have direct access to complimentary resources, such as counseling services; application support for educational scholarships; education about and access to medical and government benefits; financial counseling and assistance; mentoring; and aid for those with special needs or disabilities.

Gary Sinise Foundation Snowball Express offers a variety of activities and entertainment, including a concert from Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band.

“The Gary Sinise Foundation Snowball Express annual event is about honoring our fallen heroes and their families, who continue day in and day out to endure the cost of war,” said Elizabeth Fields, chief operating officer of the Gary Sinise Foundation.

"“While we can never truly repay the debt we owe these families, we can strive to show each of them our appreciation and gratitude whenever and wherever possible," she said. "With the support and generosity of the American people and wonderful sponsors, we are honored to be able to give a little back by lifting spirits as we take these families to the happiest place on Earth, the Walt Disney World Resort.”

Naval Stations Norfolk Gold Star Coordinator Melissa Black said the call for volunteers went out to all of the Hampton Roads bases in late October.

“The volunteer turnout this year is absolutely amazing, and it just continues to grow each year,” she said. “This is just a great opportunity to show how the military community gives back to the families that have lost so much. It reminds them that they have support from the military and hopefully helps them emotionally get through their sorrows.”