Capt. Nicholas Williams, commander, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, U.S. Army Garrison, tries to get his daughter, Nevada, 15 months, to meet Santa Claus. Nicholas’ wife, Natalie, smiles in the background during the Fort Gillem Christmas tree-...

Outside the Fort Gillem Getaway club, the installation Christmas tree shines brightly against the dark sky, letting visitors know the holiday season is underway. The Fort Gillem tree-lighting ceremony, held Dec. 2 at the Getaway club, was the officia...

Members of the Fort Gillem community welcomed their final holiday season with the lighting of the post Christmas tree Dec. 2 at the Fort Gillem Getaway club.

"This is special because it is the last," said Col. Deborah Grays, U.S. Army Garrison commander.

In keeping with prior holiday ceremonies, attendees were given hot chocolate and apple cider, Santa Claus showed up to listen to holiday requests and a Christmas train offered rides.

The Adamson Middle School chorus was also on hand to sing Christmas carols. The tree was lit by Mary Miller, wife of Lt. Gen. Tom Miller, commanding general, First Army, and several of the military children in attendance.

"This is the most fascinating time of the year for children," Miller said, adding her participation reminded her of Christmas traditions held with her kids, Kaitlyn and Bryan, when they were small.

Remembering kids and their Families was an important reason to hold the celebration, said C.J. West, retired DA Civilian and event master of ceremonies, adding it is important to provide Families with events to let them mingle and enjoy the holiday spirit together.

Grays relayed similar sentiments, asking attendees to enjoy the fellowship and music, to remember all those who weren't home for the holidays and to pray for peace.