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Help Our Servicemen Overseas

American Airlines is offering it’s customers a way to give back to servicemen in the way they would like most – helping them to see their families. The airline will guarantee a donation of at least 17,760,000 AAdvantage miles to Operation Hero Miles in support of hospitalized servicemen and women and their loved ones who have sacrificed to ensure the freedom and independence of the United States. American Airlines will match its AAdvantage-member donations mile-for-mile until the goal is reached. The donation campaign will begin July 4 and continue throughout the summer, concluding on Labor Day, Sept. 5.

"This celebration of our nation's Independence Day honors the brave men and women who continue to work for our freedom and the freedom of people around the world," said American Airlines Executive Vice President Dan Garton. "American is proud to help bring families and loved ones to the bedsides of wounded servicemen and women."

Through its partnership with the Fisher House Foundation, Operation Hero Miles is able to bring family members and close friends to the bedsides of U.S. service people hospitalized due to their service in Iraq or Afghanistan. In addition, wounded U.S. servicemen and women in Iraq and Afghanistan with an approved convalescent leave may be provided round-trip airline travel from the military hospital to their home and return if they are not eligible for government-funded airfare.

"This contribution is significant, because it will benefit approximately 600 servicemen and women and their families," said James D. Weiskopf, Vice President for Communications at the Fisher House Foundation. "Because of generous partners like American Airlines, we have already provided more than 3,500 round-trip airline tickets worth more than $3.5 million to hospitalized Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom military campaign personnel and their families." According to Weiskopf, these families often must make many trips and stay for months at a time to help seriously wounded soldiers through long recuperations and multiple surgeries.

The two U.S. Senators representing American's home state of Texas praised the Operation Hero Miles program and acknowledged American's continuing support of U.S. troops. "This is a great way for Americans to show their gratitude to those who sacrifice for our country," said Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX). "As we observe our country's Independence Day, I'm delighted that American Airlines and its customers are remembering those who continue to preserve our freedoms."

"Our troops benefit so much from the love and support of their family and friends as they put their lives on the line every day to defend our freedom," said Senator John Cornyn (R-TX). "Through its contributions, American Airlines is putting the spotlight on this program, which will not only bring in donations from American and its customers, but will lead to support from others across the country."

Senator John McCain (R-AZ) echoed support: "The Operation Hero Miles program is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate our appreciation for the brave men and women serving in the U.S. Military. By donating frequent flier miles, American Airlines and its customers can provide travel for the family members of injured troops, and thank them for their incredible support and sacrifice. As our nation celebrates Independence Day, let us honor those who are fighting for the cause of freedom."

How to Donate

AAdvantage members can donate miles to Operation Hero Miles by completing the Miles For Heroes AAdvantage Donation Form, which may be found at www.AA.com . Completed forms may be sent by fax to 817-963-7882, or by mail to Miles for Heroes, American Airlines AAdvantage Department, P.O. Box 619688, DFW Airport, TX 75261-9688.

Donors will be asked to provide their AAdvantage account number, name, mileage donation and signature on all mailed or faxed pledges. The minimum donation per member is 500 miles. Miles contributed to Operation Hero Miles cannot be designated for specific personnel.

 Edited by Erika Wright

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