Annual Fort Knox Christmas tree lighting ceremony provides festive fun, trees for troops

Check out all the images of this event at the Fort Knox Flickr page album HERE.

FORT KNOX, Ky. – Featuring Christmas trees, hot cocoa, carol singing, and of course, Santa Claus arriving by fire truck, Fort Knox’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony Dec. 2 was packed with holiday spirit.

Hundreds of community members attended the event, which took place at the post gazebo adjacent to Brooks Parade Field. Children were provided the opportunity to write letters to Santa while those in attendance enjoyed live holiday music from the 100th Division Band, and a performance by the Fort Knox Community Schools Choir.

Commanding General of U.S. Army Cadet Command and Fort Knox Maj. Gen. Johnny Davis addressed the crowd just prior to the lighting of the tree.

“The weather is perfect!” said Davis. “I’m so glad. It’s an honor to be here to share this wonderful holiday event with you. It truly warms my heart to watch everyone light up at the sight of this wonderful tree.”

Fort Knox leaders, to include Davis, U.S. Army Cadet Command and Fort Knox Command Sgt. Maj. Jerimiah Gan, Garrison Commander Col. Lance O’Bryan, Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. William Fogle, with the help of the crowd, counted down the lighting of the tree, allowing a few lucky children from the audience the opportunity to flip the switch at the appropriate moment.

Following the lighting of the tree, about 300 live trees were given away to Soldiers, Families and community members in attendance. Four-year-old Kinley Sanford, whose father serves at Fort Knox, said she’s was excited to get her tree home and decorate it.

“I got it from here,” Kinley said, pointing at the large lot lined with trees. “We’re going to put lights and ornaments on it – and a star!”

The event also included the announcement of the five winners of the Fort Knox holiday card contest, which were unveiled one by one along the edge of Brooks Field. Winners were chosen based on the most likes on their photos posted to the Fort Knox Facebook page the previous week.

One of the highlights of the evening was the arrival of Santa – who could be seen waving out the window of a Fort Knox Fire Department truck as it pulled up to the gazebo. Children then had the opportunity to take photos with the man in red in front of the tree.

In his concluding remarks, Davis wished the entire Fort Knox community happy holidays from his family.

“What a great way to kick off this holiday season!”