Gold Star is a designation given to the family of an active service member who died in the line of service.
Taking place over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, the Coca-Cola 600 honored military and their families with activities, including a special brunch for Gold Star families. NCL President David Herrera, who served in the US Army National Guard, presented each family with a free seven-day cruise.
NCL's Military Appreciation Program
'It is a pleasure to demonstrate this support with our Military Appreciation Program and offer [military families] an opportunity to reconnect on board our ships and create memories that will last a lifetime,' Herrera said. 'This program was designed for veterans by NCL veterans. These Gold Star families have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and it is our privilege to recognize and provide them some respite aboard our ships.'
In November, NCL announced launched its Military Appreciation Program to recognize service members, veterans and retired US military and their spouses with special onboard experiences, amenities and cruise fare discounts. The program was co-sponsored by Herrera alongside former US Navy SEAL Matthew Lewis, SVP and chief security officer for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
See profile of David Herrera, including his service as a paratrooper, in Seatrade Cruise Review's June issue
