Jessica Lynch to Serve as Godmother of Carnival Miracle

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.