NOVEMBER 8, 2025 – In honor of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, Carnival Cruise Line, in partnership with the Orlando Veterans Affairs Healthcare System (Orlando VA), and the Gary Sinise Foundation, today welcomed nearly 100 local veterans, surviving spouses and children of fallen military and first responder heroes for a special tribute reception aboard Carnival’s Mardi Gras, celebrating their courage and sacrifice.
During the event, Carnival announced the donation of an adapted sedan to the Orlando VA, supporting the organization’s specialized driving rehabilitation program to restore independence and improve the quality of life for veterans. The vehicle will help veterans determine whether they require adaptive equipment and provides training so they can safely drive a vehicle with ease and confidence.
“As America’s cruise line, we are honored to show our appreciation for those who bravely put their lives on the line to protect our country. By providing this adapted vehicle to the Orlando VA, we’re able to further support the wellbeing of the veteran community,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. “Carnival carries more active military members and veterans than any other cruise line, and it’s our duty to show our appreciation for their service.”
John Harshaw, U.S. Navy veteran and Carnival’s vice president of global IT infrastructure, shared his gratitude for the veterans’ service and formally announced the vehicle donation.
Orlando VA Whole Health Clinical Director Ashley Rush also highlighted the program’s vital role in helping veterans.
“The Orlando VA Health Care System Occupational Therapy program is honored to receive this generous donation from the Carnival Cruise Line team,” said Rush. “Over 250 Veterans are anticipated to benefit from this adaptive vehicle donation in 2026 alone. This donation will include essential vehicle modifications and will empower and equip veterans with the skills and confidence needed to regain independence after experiencing life-changing conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebrovascular Accidents, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Spinal Cord Injuries, Seizures, Dementia, amputations, cognitive impairments and many other conditions that necessitate driving safety assessments.”
The event concluded with recognition of each U.S. military branch and a special video tribute to families of fallen heroes from Gary Sinise. Carnival also gifted a commemorative coin to military members, veterans and families of the fallen. And since Carnival’s fleet of ships is known for fun vacations, the children of those fallen heroes were treated to some fun moments, including riding BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, which sits on the top deck of Mardi Gras.
“Our heartfelt thanks to Carnival for the incredible compassion and care they show our families of fallen heroes through their support of the Gary Sinise Foundation. They’ve helped create a space where these families can come together, find comfort and share in a beautiful experience of community and healing. Thank you, Carnival, for going above and beyond for those who have given so much,” said Donna Mercier, Executive Director of the Gary Sinise Foundation.
Carnival honors the military on every North American sailing with a special Military Appreciation Day. The day-long celebration includes a Military Appreciation Gathering in which Carnival honors the courage and commitment made by soldiers and their families.
For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation on Carnival, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.