Disney Joins Forces with Gary Sinise Foundation for Snowball Express Celebration

Disney has a long commitment to and connection with the US military.  It all began with Walt and Roy O. Disney both served in the military and supported wartime efforts during World War I.  Their legacy of honor and appreciation that continues to this day.

Partnering with the Gary Sinise Foundation, Walt Disney World proudly opened its doors once again to families of fallen military heroes for the annual “Snowball Express.” This special five-day retreat brings together hundreds of military families, offering them a chance to connect with others who share similar journeys and to find comfort and hope along their healing path.

Back in 2003, U.S. Army Private First-Class Jesse Givens penned a touching letter to his wife and kids before heading off to Iraq. In that note, he expressed a simple yet heartfelt hope—to take their children to Disneyland, sharing that he would be there with them in spirit.

Jesse’s son was only 5 years old when Jesse made the ultimate sacrifice during Operation Iraqi Freedom. That letter became a beacon of hope and inspired what has grown into the Snowball Express program.

Just a few years later, Jesse’s dream came alive when his family, along with other Gold Star families, visited Disneyland Resort in 2006—marking the very first Snowball Express event.

The next year, actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise discovered Snowball Express and eagerly joined the cause. With his Lt. Dan Band, Gary performed for families at Disneyland Resort, helping to create cherished memories and kickstarting nearly 20 years of ongoing support.

Back in 2017, the Gary Sinise Foundation proudly took Snowball Express under its care, making sure Jesse’s vision continued to shine. Then, in 2018, this heartwarming tradition made its way to Walt Disney World Resort, where each December, hundreds of families come together to enjoy a festive celebration brimming with hope, healing, and that unmistakable Disney enchantment.

At a heartfelt sunrise event called the “Walk of Gratitude” on December 9, a large group of Disney VoluntEARS gathered at Magic Kingdom to warmly welcome and cheer for over 1,600 children, surviving spouses, families of fallen military heroes, and veterans as they made their way down Main Street, U.S.A. toward Cinderella Castle.

This touching event creates special moments filled with remembrance, connection, and happiness, giving families an opportunity to honor the lives and legacies of their loved ones as they send their letters heavenward during a magical Disney experience.

Since 2018, over 23,000 children of fallen military heroes and first responders, along with their surviving parents and guardians, have taken part in Snowball Express at Walt Disney World.

The Gary Sinise Foundation has also grown this heartfelt program to host a second Snowball Express event at Walt Disney World, dedicated to families of fallen first responders, happening December 13-16.