For the first time since September 11, New York City firefighter Edmund Hiler has an opportunity to leave New York City for rest and relaxation. His destination is Arlington, Texas.

Thanks to a program sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Mayors in partnership with convention and visitor bureaus throughout the country, Hiler’s weekend visit to Arlington begins Friday, March 1. His three-day itinerary includes tours of The Ballpark in Arlington and Legends of the Game baseball museum, dining at some of Arlington’s finest restaurants and hotel accommodations at the Arlington Hilton.

According to Arlington Convention and Visitors Bureau president Linda Howell DiMario, free weekend trips for each of the 300 New York City firefighters is part of a new Cities Unite America program designed to encourage travel and tourism. The free trips also represent a collective thanks from the nation’s cities to the heroes of the New York City Fire Department, she said.

Hiler is a 17-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department. He is also a husband and father of three. He will be accompanied to Arlington by his wife, Laura, of 11 years. On the morning of September 11, Hiler reported to work at 8 a.m. One hour later, his life forever changed.