Depot planting ceremony demonstrates ACS support for Families

By Mrs. Jennifer Bacchus (AMC)November 10, 2010

Depot planting ceremony demonstrates ACS support for Families
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. - The depot's Army Community Service is putting down roots, literally, at their future location.

Monday, the group held a tree planting ceremony in recognition of Military Family Month at Bldg. 220, which is slated to be the new home of ACS next year.

"Since we plan to be in Bldg. 220 for a long time, the tree will be a lasting monument to the military Family," said Jim Webb, director of community and family activities. "We feel the tree will constantly spring forth new growth with fertile soil, tender care and loving support, just as we feel our military Families will flourish when we provide them with a fertile environment, tender care and loving support."

Military Family Month was established in 1993 by the Armed Services YMCA. It is a time to reflect on the contributions military Families provide in support of service members, their communities and the nation.

"I looked up the word 'family' and there are a lot of definitions out there," said Depot Sgt. Maj. Tony Butler, who spoke at the ceremony. He said a family could even consist of those you work with or, in the case of the military, those you serve with.

"The nucleus of anything is the team and we consider the family to be the backbone of that team," said Butler.

Children from the depot's Child Development Center also participated Monday by tying yellow ribbons around the crepe myrtle tree.

Many of the CDC's students were also honored for their participation in ACS' Army Hero art contest. School-age children as well as those between the ages of three to five drew or painted what they envisioned an Army hero would look like. Each student who entered received an award for their artwork.

Other events planned by ACS for Military History Month include:

Aca,!Ac An appearance by Susan Shipman of Second Chance on The Morning Show to discuss domestic violence awareness

Aca,!Ac The Community Deployment Group will begin meeting. This group will provide support for Families of deployed Soldiers and civilians

Aca,!Ac The financial readiness program will work with students at the depot's Career Academy to train them in fiscal responsibility

Aca,!Ac The ACS plans to hold an Army Community Covenant signing on Nov. 30 at the Berman-Varner House.