Ruppersberger Announces "Operation Hero Miles" Hits Thanksgiving Eve Milestone 133 Million Miles = 5,350 Free Tickets for Troops

Washington, DC - Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Maryland) is proud to announce "Operation Hero Miles" has hit a milestone on the eve of Thanksgiving. More than 133 million frequent flyer miles have been donated to this program that helps troops on Rest and Relaxation (R and R) from Iraq or emergency leave fly home for free. The generosity of thousands of travelers this holiday season means soldiers can get 5,350 free plane tickets allowing them to spend quality time with family and friends without worrying about how much it will cost.

"On the eve of Thanksgiving, more than 5,000 men and women in uniform can give thanks for the generosity of thousands of Americans who donated their frequent flyer miles so the troops can be reunited with their families for the holidays. Americans across the country are stepping up in amazing numbers. This overwhelming response to 'Operation Hero Miles' has been absolutely amazing and inspiring and it means even more during the holidays," said Congressman Ruppersberger.

The soldiers who have been granted two weeks of R & R are flown to Baltimore Washington International Airport, Hartsfield International Airport in Atlanta, GA, and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport in Texas by the Department of Defense and then required to pay their own way to make connecting flights to their hometowns all across the country. Congressman Ruppersberger is concerned about the financial burden placed on military families in these very uncertain times and created Operation Hero Miles.

How to Donate

Travelers can donate their frequent flyer miles by visiting Congressman Ruppersberger's web site, www.heromiles.org, or by visiting the participating airlines web sites, Air Tran Airways, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Pan Am-Boston Maine Airways, United Airlines.