Jay, VT – Vermont’s Jay Peak Resort is again offering free ski and snowboard season passes to all immediate family members of Vermonters currently deployed, or about to be deployed, overseas.

The resort started the free pass policy in 2007 with other resorts throughout New England following suit in the intervening years. The offer extends to the children and spouses of all Vermont active-duty personnel across all service branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and the National Guard. In addition to the free season pass, immediate family members will also receive a 50% discount on equipment rentals, and free skiing or riding lessons in the afternoons, space permitting.

“A lot of us up here (at Jay Peak) have witnessed first-hand the sacrifice these service members and their families have made for the last decade as loved ones have been deployed overseas,” said Jay Peak president Bill Stenger. “And (in recent weeks), we have witnessed their dedication and hard work here at home in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene. Extending these types of offers is the least we can do to help provide some fun and enjoyment that might lighten the stress military families feel on a daily basis.”

To receive the free pass, immediate family members can visit the resort’s customer service center located just beneath the tram station. Passes will be issued after presenting a Letter of Deployment and the military IDs that are issued to family members.

In addition to the free season pass, Jay Peak will also host a Troops Ski and Ride Day on Saturday, December 17th. All active duty personnel and their immediate family members will receive a $20 lift ticket when presenting their military IDs. Tickets can be purchased at the Customer Service centers located at both the Tram and State sides of the resort.

The Troops Ski and Ride Day is being sponsored by the Raise ‘em Jay Foundation. The Foundation promotes the exploration of all things outdoors and was established to provide support and aid to communities wanting to get outside and enjoy all that Vermont offers.