Malmstrom invites the holiday season

  • Published
  • By Airman Daniel Brosam
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, MONT. --  Malmstrom ushered in the winter holiday season Dec. 2 with a tree-lighting ceremony, an Elf Mart, a card judging contest, snacks and refreshments at the Grizzly Bend.

To kick off the event, Santa and Mrs. Claus assisted Col. Tom Wilcox, 341st Missile Wing commander, in lighting the decorated trees.

Wilcox asked everyone in attendance to remember those not able to celebrate the holidays with their loved ones.

"While we're here, we have folks in the wing that are not here and are out working," said Wilcox. "We have some family members who are out in the field, so let's make sure we remember them tonight."

Wilcox then quizzed the children on the names of Santa's nine reindeer.

Once the tree was lit, children were welcomed to Elf Mart, a room filled with various gifts where children were able to purchase the gifts for their families at the cost of one penny each.

The little ones were also able to sit on Santa's lap and talk to the Clauses while their parents snapped photos of the moment.

In attendance was Staff Sgt. Kimberly Corbridge, 341st MW judge advocate paralegal, and she thought it was a nice thing for Malmstrom to hold such an event.

"It's wonderful to bring all the families together and give them the opportunity to see Santa and his bride," Corbridge said. "There are smiling faces everywhere."

The last event to take place was the announcement of the winners for the 4-by-8 foot holiday cards on display outside of the Grizzly Bend.

The 341st Force Support Squadron placed first in the squadron category and the Air Force Sergeants Association placed first in the group category.

All in all more than 200 Airmen and their families attended the event to start Decemember off right -- together and ready for the winter season.