Former Army private Jessica Lynch will fulfill the role of godmother to Carnival Cruise Lines' newest cruise ship, Carnival Miracle, at the
official naming ceremony in Jacksonville, Fla., slated for February 27, 2004. The occasion marks the first time a brand-new cruise ship will be introduced at the nation's newest cruise homeport.
"We are privileged that Miss Lynch, who represents the thousands of
courageous American men and women serving in our armed forces, has accepted
our invitation to be godmother of our newest ship," said Carnival President
& CEO Bob Dickinson. "And Jacksonville, with its long military and maritime
history, is a perfect venue for this ceremony," he added.
The retired Army private will break the traditional bottle of champagne
across the bow of the newest Carnival "Fun Ship" at ceremonies immediately
preceding Carnival Miracle's special three-day inaugural cruise from the
Port of Jacksonville.
"In appreciation for Miss Lynch serving as godmother of the Carnival
Miracle, Carnival is pleased to make a significant contribution to the
Jessica Lynch Foundation.," Dickinson said.
Jessica Lynch established the foundation to assist children of soldiers that
have either served in the military or were killed while on duty. She also
plans to use the foundation to benefit the Wirt County, West Virginia,
community where she lives.
Carnival Miracle is slated to debut from Jacksonville Feb. 27, 2004, with a
series of 12 three- to six-day voyages through April 17, 2004, marking the
first time that Carnival has ever operated from that port.