Christmas tree lighting welcomes the holiday season

by Airman 1st Class Malissa Lott
366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

12/6/2013 - MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho  -- The Gunfighter community attended a holiday parade and participated in the holiday tree lighting ceremony Dec. 5, 2013.

Santa Claus and base leadership gave candy to children throughout base housing and ended the parade with the ceremonial lighting of the base Christmas Tree.

"We as Airmen talk a lot about heritage and tradition; Christmas Tree lightings are very traditional and remind us of a season of joy, family, friendship and selflessness," said Chief Master Sgt. Alexander del Valle, 366th Fighter Wing command chief. "Not only does it touch those who view the tree as a faith-based belief, but even for those who simply use the Christmas tree as a symbol of holiday cheer that can pull us closer together and remind us about the goodness we can all share."

After visiting base housing, the parade concluded at Liberty Chapel and hot beverages were available for everyone. Santa Claus was also ready to take photos with the Gunfighter children and asked what they wanted for Christmas.

"We sang a couple of Christmas carols and read the Christmas story from the gospel of Luke," said Capt. Lance Schrader, 366th FW chaplain. "Chaplain (Lt. Col. Patrick) Genseal gave a blessing to the base and Col. (Byron) Anderson gave his Christmas greeting."

This year, Anderson, 366th FW vice commander, flipped the switch to light the Christmas tree with the help of the base children.

"I look forward to seeing our Gunfighters and particularly our Gunfighter children, smiling and waving at the parade as the vehicles and Santa pass by," said del Valle. "It's those moments when it's not about you, me, or them; it's about everyone simply smiling and enjoying being happy without the burdens of the daily grind."

With Christmas right around the corner many are taking this opportunity to welcome the holiday of friendship.

"I am looking forward for a chance to bring the base community together," said Schrader. "The holidays are busy and this is a time, a tradition across America, to light Christmas trees. I am just excited to bring people to the chapel so that they know that we are there for them, that we love them, and that we want to be a blessing to the base community.