The holiday season is bringing more than just festive cheers to families of US Marines in the Valley, thanks to the nonprofit organization Miles for Military. In a report by ABC 15, the organization has facilitated heartwarming reunions by providing plane tickets in exchange for volunteer service. Private Daniel de Jesus Garcia, who was stationed in North Carolina for a month and a half, expressed the ineffable joy of being home. "Finally being back, being right here next to her, next to my sister as well, it’s awesome. There’s no feeling like this," de Jesus Garcia told ABC 15.
Miles for Military's initiative is not only about reuniting families but also promotes community service among service members. Private First Class Michael Maselli shared with ABC 15 his gratitude towards the organization, "Yeah, I wouldn’t have been able to come back. For sure. I wouldn’t have had the money to, but the 25 hours of community service and the donations to Miles for Military 100 percent is what got me here. 100 percent thank you to them." These programs are a testament to the nonprofit's goal of fostering both family connections and civic engagement.
In a similar vein, fundsforngos reports that the organization has sent around 100 Marines and sailors home this year and aims to increase that number to 2,000 in the next year. Maureen Byrne, the founder of Miles for Military, was moved to create the initiative after learning how many service members couldn't afford trips home. Lance Corporal Bryson Fussell, another beneficiary of the program, arrived home in Phoenix from North Carolina just in time for Christmas, capturing the essence of the organization's mission.
As Miles for Military pushes forward, the requirement of 25 volunteer hours creates a reciprocal relationship between the service members and the community. "Any opportunity to go home is really awesome. Even mentioning it to my mom, she bawled her eyes out," Nathaniel, an active-duty service member, shared his experience with fundsforngos. These personal stories illuminate the profound impact of the program – one that goes beyond the flight itself and into the realm of service and familial bond.
