ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – Approximately 50 Soldiers from APG tenant units received food vouchers as part of Operation Helping Hand at the Commissary Nov. 22.

Operation Helping Hand is an annual program hosted by the Religious Support Office for APG Soldiers. The Soldiers received food vouchers to supplement their Thanksgiving meal. These vouchers were funded through donations. APG senior enlisted Soldiers and officers bagged groceries for the recipients.

“We are happy to serve and give back to the community,” said APG Deputy Garrison Chaplain (Maj.) Denise Hagler.

Sgt. IIsa Stephens said he was grateful to receive the voucher.

“It’s an amazing opportunity; everyone was so awesome,” said his wife, Jada Stephens. “It was very much [in keeping] with the holiday season.”

Sgt. 1st Class Noemi Lucero, with the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, said she was happy to help and give back as the holidays are approaching.

“It is an honor to serve them,” she said.

Col. Robin Neumeier, commander of MRICD called the program “amazing.”

“It really allows the Soldiers and family members to have what they need for their family during this time,” she said.

For more photos, visit https://www.flickr.com/photos/usagapg/albums/72157720218769433/with/51736031078/