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COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- For the families of fallen soldiers, the holidays can be difficult. That is why Snowball Express was started.

The nonprofit organization arranges all-expense paid trips across the country for the children and spouses of military men and women who lost their lives defending our nation.

A group of families left from Colorado Springs Wednesday, headed for Dallas.

"The holidays can be hard, remembering our loved ones, and so it is good to be with friends who understand," Milly Briseno said.

Briseno and her three children were on their way to Dallas on American Airlines, also known as the Snowball Express.

The family lost their husband and father four years ago after he suffered a massive stroke. They said he served in the military for nearly two decades.

This year American Airlines said they are transporting 1,300 people like the Brisenos to Texas for a weekend of fun and hospitality.

"We will be going down to Cowboys stadium and spending some time with them. There will be a clinic that takes place there, and we are also going to be participating in a western barbeque at a ranch down there," said Lothar Von Wolfseck, American Airlines official.

American Airlines said they chartered eight planes to pick up families from across the country. They said it is important to honor the families who have lost loved ones while serving in the military.

"It is something we can do for them, give back so to speak, and also it kind of takes a little bit of the edge off of the holiday season after someone very dear to them is no longer with them," Von Wolfseck said.

As for the families who are going on the Snowball Express, they said they are extremely thankful for the opportunity and added it is a great way to kick off the Christmas season.

"It is wonderful that we have people that care about my children and are willing to give them such an amazing gift," Briseno said.

To learn more about the Snowball Express click here.