Tree farmers, transporters team up to provide trees for Airmen

by Airman Ashley J. Woolridge
28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

12/13/2012 - ELLSWORTH AIR FOCRE BASE, S.D. -- Christmas spirit at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., was boosted when a semi truck delivered 235 free Christmas trees Outdoor Recreation Office as part of the Fifth Annual Trees for Troops event, Nov. 30.

Sponsored by the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, tree farmers from across the midwest donate trees that are transported free of charge by freight haulers to various military installations as a way of thanking servicemembers and their families for their many sacrifices.

Col. Thomas Goulter, 28th Mission Support Group commander, said this was the first year he has witnessed the program at the base, and that he was humbled by the gesture of support.

"This is an outstanding event for Airmen, especially for the families of our deployed Airmen," Goulter said.

Farmers from Iowa, Kansas and Missouri donated the trees that were unloaded by 20 volunteers from various squadrons and base organizations.

Rachel Bothwell, FedEx freight driver, guided the "sleigh" carrying the trees delivered to Ellsworth this year. She said she was impressed with how all of the volunteers worked together to empty the trailer.

"This is my first year being involved," Bothwell said. "I cannot believe how fast they get the trees unloaded."

Tara Kuenkel, spouse of an Ellsworth Airman, said she appreciates the opportunity to add some Christmas cheer to her family's home.

"I think it's great that they're able to donate these trees to the families (at Ellsworth)," Kuenkel said. "It's them giving back - especially at this time of year when so many people are deployed."

Many of the trees sported tags with heartfelt messages from the tree farmer to the family who would eventually pick up the tree. Kuenkel said she was fortunate enough to be able to thank the farmer who grew the tree she picked out last year.

"I was able to look them up, and I sent them a picture of our tree all decorated in our home," Kuenkel explained.

Bothwell said she thinks Trees for Troops is a great way to reward America's men and women in uniform.

"It's nice to give something back to the troops who have given so much to us," Bothwell said. "It's amazing."

With the number of deployed Ellsworth Airmen nearing 580, Goulter said it's important to keep in mind how even the smallest things can make a huge difference in someone's holiday season.

"I believe it's a little bit of home," Goulter said. "I believe they know their loved ones are safe while they're deployed, and at least they have that little light - that little ember - of home."