Carnival Cruise President Skydives for Hurricane Relief
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy took a thrilling leap this week, skydiving over Tampa Bay to raise funds for hurricane relief efforts. This exhilarating tandem skydive raised over $85,000 for the Gary Sinise Foundation, which provides support to individuals affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Duffy’s daring jump coincided with Carnival Cruise Line’s inaugural Special Forces Legacy Initiatives (SFLI) cruise aboard the Carnival Paradise. As part of this initiative, the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation pledged to match the funds raised, with the total contributions benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project, an organization dedicated to assisting veterans of the armed forces.
The skydive took place just as Carnival Paradise departed from the Port of Tampa Bay, adding excitement to the cruise’s send-off. Duffy faced the challenge alongside members of the USSOCOM Para-Commandos, the premier aerial parachute demonstration team of the U.S. Special Operations Command, and the Round Canopy Parachute Team, a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the Allied Airborne Forces from WWII. Duffy made her jump from the historic “Tico Belle,” a WWII-era C-47 airplane that played a vital role during the D-Day invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944.
“Jumping from a plane was a rush, but the real thrill is supporting a meaningful cause in one of our important homeport communities,” Duffy remarked. “I thought my first-ever skydive would be a good fundraising opportunity, and I’m so grateful to everyone who donated to this effort. I’m proud we can deliver this significant donation to the Gary Sinise Foundation, a great organization supporting the work of military and first responders assisting in hurricane relief efforts.”
The skydive event was part of a larger day of festivities at the Port of Tampa Bay, featuring a special performance by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band, along with various onboard activities on the Carnival Paradise. The SFLI chartered the vessel for a five-day journey to The Bahamas, providing a well-deserved vacation for Special Forces veterans, Gold Star families, and friends. This inaugural SFLI voyage serves as an at-sea reunion for Green Berets who have served from the Korean War to the present day, reinforcing community bonds among those who have dedicated their lives to serving the nation.
Duffy’s commitment to supporting hurricane relief and military veterans showcases Carnival Cruise Line’s dedication to making a positive impact in the communities it serves. The funds raised through this skydive and matching contributions will significantly aid recovery efforts for those affected by the recent hurricanes.
As Carnival Cruise Line continues to support charitable initiatives like the SFLI and collaborate with organizations such as the Gary Sinise Foundation, it demonstrates the importance of community involvement and the impact of collective efforts in helping those in need. Duffy’s skydiving adventure not only raised crucial funds but also highlighted the spirit of giving back, emphasizing the importance of supporting those who serve and protect.
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