"We all know someone – a family member, a neighbor, a friend, perhaps ourselves – who has served," said Buckelew in a statement. "As a veteran myself, I know that America's warriors face immeasurable challenges both during active duty and when they return home. I look forward to meeting many of our passengers on board to help us raise much-needed funds to assist our veterans."

The four-day cruise, calling in Progreso, Mexico, is designed to raise $1 million for the organizations. $500,000 will be raised via a portion of each passenger's cruise fare, and $500,000 will be matched by Princess Cruises.

Onboard programming and activities, designed to honor those who have and are serving our country include guest lecturers, special topic panels, a Stars and Stripes Sailaway, service branch get-togethers, a film festival and more.

Perhaps even more significant, the cruise launches a new "Cruising for a Cause" initiative where Princess will dedicate entire sailings to support select charitable causes, providing the line's passengers a way to make a difference even as they vacation.



[Photo Credit: Flickr user John M Cooper]