ASYMCA hosts 4th annual 'Christmas you Missed'

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kari R. Rodriguez, Navy Region Southwest Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Armed Services YMCA brought together military families from around the San Diego area for a morning of decorating cookies and gingerbread houses during the 4th annual 'Christmas you Missed' event June 25.

The event gathered more than 650 service members and their families who were separated during the 2009 holiday season due to deployment. The families enjoyed listening to Christmas carols, decorating trees and having their photo taken with Santa.

"We had our biggest turnout this year. It this gives us the chance to recreate the holidays for our military members," Brittany Catton, ASYMCA director of development and public relations said. "This is such a magical morning, and it's one of my favorite days of the year."

One participant said he really appreciates how much the community gives back to the military and their families.

"It feels great knowing that my community back home cares enough to recreate Christmas for my family and me. My daughter was really excited," said Electrician's Mate 2nd Class (SW/AW) Moises Gutierrez, who was deployed with the USS Bonhomme Richard battle group during the holidays. "This event really boosts morale for those who don't get to spend the holidays with their families."

Catton said this event was started by the ASYMCA volunteers Todd Little who wanted to give back to military members who were separated from their family during Christmas.

"The first year that we held this event was great and it has gotten bigger since then," Catton said. "We also hold this event in June because we want to catch everyone who has come back from deployment before they deploy again."Each family received presents from Toys for Tots, a stocking filled with Christmas candy and handwritten cards from members of the community.