Tree-lighting ceremony kicks off holidays

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Cortney Paxton
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Despite below-zero temperatures, countless Team Malmstrom members gathered in front of Bldg. 1191 on Dec. 5 to watch this year's tree-lighting ceremony. The ceremony kicked off the base's winter holiday celebrations, providing an enjoyable and safe way for Airmen to spend time together with families and other Airmen.

Santa Claus and Col. Mark Schuler, 341st Operations Group commander, on behalf of Col. Robert Stanley, 341st Missile Wing commander, kicked off the ceremony by welcoming everyone who attended and acknowledging the importance of the holidays.

The holidays are a great time to take a moment to appreciate and celebrate everything we have, Schuler said.

After the tree outside of Bldg. 1191 was lit with many different colors, and the star on top of it was shining, everyone in attendance headed inside the Grizzly Bend to enjoy snacks, holiday music and good company.

"The tree-lighting ceremony was conducted outside in a temperature of negative 28 [degrees]," said Derrick Stewart, 341st Force Support Squadron community support flight chief. "[But inside], everyone enjoyed free hot chocolate, coffee and cookies."

While inside, children were also able to visit Santa, and the winners of the Holiday Card Contest were announced. The Holiday Card Contest was split into two different categories to enter - by squadron or any other, which included families and Department of Defense civilians - and cards were judged on theme, artistic appreciation and originality. There were 10 total entries for both categories.

Schuler, along with help from Lt. Col. Sabrina Jones, 341st FSS commander, announced the winners in each category, which are listed below:

UNIT WINNERS:
· 1st Place - 341st Force Support Squadron
· 2nd Place - 341st Medical Operations Squadron
· 3rd Place - 341st Logistics Readiness Squadron

OTHER WINNERS:
· 1st Place - Skils' Kin Department
· 2nd Place - 341st Civil Engineer Squadron spousal group

All of the cards will be up on display through New Years to help keep Team Malmstrom in the holiday spirit.