Princess Cruises raised $600,000 during the line’s “Cruising for a Cause” fundraising cruise for veterans this past November. The funds have been divided equally between Operation Homefront and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, with Alan Buckelew, former president and CEO of Princess Cruises and a Vietnam veteran, today presenting a $300,000 cheque to Jim Knotts, CEO of Operation Homefront. Buckelew previously presented a similar check to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.

This special cruise offered passengers the opportunity to honor those who have served in the military as well as active duty military personnel. A number of special guests joined the voyage, including a former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, retired senior officers from each military branch, an award-winning war correspondent; and other respected speakers. Veterans representing all conflicts participated in the cruise, which also featured special performers, celebrities, panel discussions and military-themed events.

“We were so honored to have hosted this cruise to support these organizations that are doing such vital work for our veterans,” said Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises. “America’s veterans and their families face immeasurable challenges, and we’re pleased to be able to honor them as well as provide funds to those organizations that assist them.”

Funds were raised by matching a portion of each passenger’s cruise fare as well as other fundraising activities during the special sailing, which took place aboard Caribbean Princess.