Freedom Crossing, Fort Bliss-
Laughter, good cheer, and Christmas tunes filled the air at The Grand Theater on Fort Bliss Dec. 2. For students from the Canutillo Independent School District, the day was a wonderful opportunity to kick back, have fun, and learn a little about the daily life of local service members.
“To be on base at Fort Bliss, engaging with Soldiers, see military vehicles, that’s something the students don’t often get to experience,” said Dr. Monica Reyes, Executive Director of Student Support Services for Canutillo Schools.
Fort Bliss partnered with Canutillo Schools and the local charity organization Knights of Columbus to provide an early holiday celebration for the children, who ranged in age from elementary school through high school. The event included dancing, a kids obstacle course, arts and crafts, and a static display of military tactical vehicles and equipment the students could explore and ask questions about to participating service members. The event was part of the “Coats for Kids” initiative, which provides winter coats for local children and families in need.
“We had a great opportunity to show off Fort Bliss and partner up with Freedom Crossing to help the less fortunate children from Canutillo receive the gift of warmth through a jacket donation that for some, may very well be the only Christmas present they receive this year,” said Fort Bliss Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Gerardo Gonzalez.
The donation initiative began with 150 coats and has now grown to 250 coats per year for students in need. This is the 6th annual event that has taken place, but it is the first time it has happened on Fort Bliss.
“El Paso weather is very tricky because it’s cold in the mornings and night, but warm during the day. If kids are not bundled up, they can get sick and then they are missing school,” said Reyes. “Being able to provide those in need with a warm coat can make all the difference for our students success.”
For the volunteers participating, there was nothing more rewarding than seeing the children’s reactions to their new coats.
"It was wonderful to see their smiles when they tore up their packages, and see their faces light up with thanks while they were showing off their new gear," said Gonzalez. "This event shows that Fort Bliss is one with the greater El Paso community, and we were delighted to host this annual tradition.”
For many students, the experience was brand new. Most have never been on a military base or had a chance to directly interact with active-duty service members. The event was a chance for them to explore, and possibly be inspired to pursue a future military career.
“Who knows, there may be some future Soldiers. Some of the children may say I want to do this! I want to be like her or him and wear the uniform!” said Reyes. “This event is all about inspiring our students and telling them the world is theirs!"
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