Jumping at the chance to support military and first responders assisting in hurricane relief efforts, Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy earned her wings as she completed a tandem skydive over Tampa Bay, culminating a fundraiser she led that delivered more than $85,000 to the Gary Sinise Foundation. The funds were raised to help those impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton, and the tandem skydive coincides with the inaugural Special Forces Legacy Initiatives (SFLI) cruise on Carnival Paradise. Additionally, the Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation is matching funds to donate to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Duffy’s tandem dive took place as Carnival Paradise departed from the Port of Tampa Bay. Duffy accepted the challenge to jump, as part of the celebration of the SFLI cruise, with the Round Canopy Parachute Team, a non-profit that honors the history of Allied Airborne Forces, as well as members of the USSOCOM Para-Commandos, the U.S. Special Operations Command’s premier aerial parachute demonstration team. Duffy jumped from the “Tico Belle,” a World War II veteran C-47 aircraft flown during the Normandy D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944.

“Jumping from a plane was a rush, but the real thrill is supporting a meaningful cause in one of our important homeport communities,” said Duffy. “I thought my first-ever skydive would be a good fundraising opportunity, and I’m so grateful to everyone who donated to this effort. I’m proud we can deliver this significant donation to the Gary Sinise Foundation, a great organization supporting the work of military and first responders assisting in hurricane relief efforts.”

The tandem skydive followed a day full of events at the Port of Tampa Bay, including a special performance by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band, and on board Carnival Paradise. The SFLI chartered the ship to ensure special forces alumni, their families, Gold Star families, and friends can enjoy a five-day cruise to The Bahamas and strengthen the bonds within their community. This Special Forces cruise is bringing together Green Berets that served from the Korean War to present times to enjoy a reunion at sea.