FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Christmas time is a season of giving, but the Heart of Alabama Combined Federal Campaign started the giving in September, with its annual campaign concluding with a full-blown celebration at the Victory and Awards Celebration Tuesday at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum.

"This is a celebration. That is why you have the party horns on your seat. This is an opportunity for all of us to blow our own horns," said Bob Crittenden, emcee of the event, explaining that contributions to the CFC exceeded this year's goal of $1.25 million, reaching $1,304,173, or 116% of the goal. In addition to exceeding this goal as a campaign, 30 donor groups set new records for amount pledged, 15 groups exceeded their stretch goal and 16 met their goal within the first three weeks of the campaign.

Among the distinguished guests at the event was Maj. Gen. Anthony G. Crutchfield, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker commanding general, who addressed the group with a personal message of thanks.

"I want to say thanks to everyone here -- all of the volunteers, organizations and supporters. All of us here at the Aviation Center really appreciate what you've done," said Crutchfield, before unveiling the total of funds raised, a number he called "very impressive."

Crutchfield described his first experience with the CFC nearly 30 years ago, and touched on the many lives the CFC touches through its many charitable options.

"You don't have to have to go very far to learn about people in need. You can read it in the newspaper, watch it on TV or listen to it on the radio. Earlier this year, we witnessed several disasters in our own state, here in Alabama. It's personal. You want to give. You want to help others. I don't think there's one person in here that cannot open the (CFC) brochure and be touched in some way by some organization that helps mankind. That's why your generosity means so much," he said.

Bev Arnold, CFC Wiregrass area campaign associate, thanked the many groups of donors for their hard work during the campaign.

"During our training, I read a quote to you (the key workers and project officers) that said that the top people do what's expected and then some. Some of you might have seemed a little leery about whether we could meet our goal or not, and this proves that you can. I'm proud of you and of your work this year," she said.

After acknowledging the more than 50 groups of donors who met or exceeded this year's goal, Crittenden concluded the event, inviting each guest to enjoy cake and company, along with the pride of knowing they made a difference.

"Our hard work resulted in a record campaign. Each of us can take pride that serving as volunteers and giving as donors will help to strengthen and improve the lives of many people," he said.

For more information on the CFC, call 255-9261.