Governor Quinn Encourages Donation of Unused Air Miles to Support Families of Wounded Servicemembers

CHICAGO – May 30, 2010. Governor Quinn today encouraged the public to support Operation Hero Miles, a program that supports servicemembers who were injured in Iraq or Afghanistan. Operation Hero Miles assists families allowing them to visit their loved ones who are recovering in military hospitals around the world through the donation of unused frequent flyer miles.

“I encourage everyone to honor those who fight for our freedom by supporting Operation Hero Miles,” said Governor Quinn. “The donation of unused frequent flyer miles is a convenient way for the people of Illinois to show appreciation for our heroes during this Memorial Day weekend.”

Administered by Fisher House, Operation Hero Miles is a not-for-profit foundation that provides a “home away from home” at little or no cost for family members of military personnel receiving medical care at military and Veterans Affairs medical centers around the world.

For additional information on Operation Hero Miles, please visit www.FisherHouse.org. To date, the program has issued almost 20,000 donated tickets, with a savings worth nearly $27 million to military families.

Through Operation Hero Miles, airline tickets available for families of military can only be used for travel related to a medical condition. Servicemembers being treated as a result of an injury can also request a ticket to travel home while on medical leave with permission from their doctor.

Operation Hero Miles partners with the following air carriers:

As Memorial Day approaches, Governor Quinn is encouraging Illinois residents to pause and recognize the servicemen and servicewomen who have lost their lives fighting for democracy overseas.