USAG Poland brightens holiday season with tree lightings

By Bethany HuffDecember 9, 2025

The U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosted its annual Tree Lighting Ceremonies at four installation sites: Poznań, Powidz, Drawsko Pomorskie Training Area, and Świętoszów.

USAG Poland Deputy Garrison Manager-Powidz, Maria Diaz, gives an interview of the importance of keeping traditions going for U.S. Soldiers while deployed or on rotation.

U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army video by Spc. Kaylan Joseph)

These events bring Soldiers, Civilians, and authorized community members together to mark the start of the holiday season and strengthen morale across the garrison’s dispersed footprint.

Each ceremony featured a mix of holiday music, lighting of the installation tree, and community activities tailored to the local site. The series reflects USAG Poland’s commitment to building traditions, its growth toward permanence, commitment to the community, Polish and American, and a taste of home for all its residents.

Photos from Świętoszów:

Poland Tree Lighting Ceremony
1 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Santa sits in front of the Christmas tree for photos during a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Swietoszow, Poland, Dec. 5, 2025. The ceremony builds ties with the local community through tradition by bringing a taste of home for Soldiers overseas. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jude Vogel) (Photo Credit: Spc. Jude Vogel) VIEW ORIGINAL
Poland Tree Lighting Ceremony
2 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – The Polish Army band plays Christmas music during a Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at Swietoszow, Poland, Dec. 5, 2025. Ceremonies such as these strengthen community bonds and provide deployed Soldiers with holiday cheer and shared connection. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jude Vogel) (Photo Credit: Spc. Jude Vogel) VIEW ORIGINAL
Poland Tree Lighting Ceremony
3 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – The Polish Army band play Christmas music during a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Swietoszow, Poland, Dec. 5, 2025. The ceremony builds ties with the local community through tradition by bringing a taste of home for Soldiers overseas. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jude Vogel) (Photo Credit: Spc. Jude Vogel) VIEW ORIGINAL
Poland Tree Lighting Ceremony
4 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A member of the Polish Army band plays Christmas music during a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Swietoszow, Poland, Dec. 5, 2025. Ceremonies such as these strengthen community bonds and provide deployed Soldiers with holiday cheer and shared connection. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jude Vogel) (Photo Credit: Spc. Jude Vogel) VIEW ORIGINAL
Poland Tree Lighting Ceremony
U.S. Army Soldiers and Polish citizens grab food and drinks provided by the USO during a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Swietoszow, Poland, Dec. 5, 2025. The ceremony builds ties with the local community through tradition by bringing a taste of home for Soldiers overseas. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jude Vogel) (Photo Credit: Spc. Jude Vogel) VIEW ORIGINAL

Photos from Powidz:

USAG Poland and 3rd ID tree lighting ceremony
1 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
2 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
3 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
4 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
5 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
6 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID tree lighting ceremony
7 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
8 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
9 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID tree lighting ceremony
10 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID tree lighting ceremony
11 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
12 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
13 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
14 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
15 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
16 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID tree lighting ceremony
17 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
18 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID tree lighting ceremony
19 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
20 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID tree lighting ceremony
21 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
22 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
23 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
24 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
25 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL
USAG Poland and 3rd ID Powidz tree lighting ceremony
26 / 26 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Garrison Poland hosts a tree lighting ceremony at 33rd Air Base Powidz, Poland, with the assistance of Powidz garrison staff members, United Service Organization (USO) and Morale, Welfare, & Recreation (MWR) volunteers, Polish Land Forces soldiers and U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade and 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade on December 5, 2025. As U.S. Army Garrison Poland continues its mission to support a permanent U.S. military presence in Poland, the transition from Initial Operational Capability (IOC) to Fully Operational Capability (FOC) marks a significant milestone in its development. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Dean Johnson) VIEW ORIGINAL

Photos from DCTC

U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
1 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Members of the Polish Military band play music during the post events of the 2nd tree lighting ceremony in the U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, in DCTC, Poland. The gathering reflected the close bond between the U.S. and Poland, bringing our military communities together in a shared tradition that strengthens friendship and cooperation. (U.S. Army photo by Chief Warrant Officer 2 Matthew Thomas) (Photo Credit: Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Thomas) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
2 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Soldiers enjoy Santa's company, while he visits the community during the 2nd tree lighting ceremony hosted by U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, in DCTC, Poland. The event reinforced USAG Poland’s role as the most operationally relevant garrison by creating space for morale, connection, and the kind of resilience that carries our community through the holidays.(U.S. Army photo by Chief Warrant Officer 2 Matthew Thomas) (Photo Credit: Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Thomas) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
3 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Soldiers enjoy Santa's company, while he visits the community during the 2nd tree lighting ceremony hosted by U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, in DCTC, Poland. The event reinforced USAG Poland’s role as the most operationally relevant garrison by creating space for morale, connection, and the kind of resilience that carries our community through the holidays.(U.S. Army photo by Chief Warrant Officer 2 Matthew Thomas) (Photo Credit: Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Thomas) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
4 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Children from the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary sing holiday songs during the 2nd tree lighting ceremony hosted by U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, in DCTC, Poland. The celebration highlighted USAG Poland’s People First focus, giving Soldiers and Civilians a chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy a moment of holiday comfort together. (U.S. Army photo by Chief Warrant Officer 2 Matthew Thomas) (Photo Credit: Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Thomas) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
5 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Children from the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary sing holiday songs during the 2nd tree lighting ceremony hosted by U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, in DCTC, Poland. The celebration highlighted USAG Poland’s People First focus, giving Soldiers and Civilians a chance to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy a moment of holiday comfort together. (U.S. Army photo by Chief Warrant Officer 2 Matthew Thomas) (Photo Credit: Chief Warrant Officer Matthew Thomas) VIEW ORIGINAL

Photos from Poznan

USAG Poland brightens holiday season with tree lightings
1 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A holiday tree glows during the Poznań Military Community Tree Lighting Ceremony Dec. 5, 2025, at Camp Kościuszko, Poland. A Polish compact car decorated from Santa’s arrival sits beside the display after community members gathered to celebrate the start of the holiday season. (U.S. Army photo by Bethany Huff) (Photo Credit: Bethany Huff) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
2 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Friends and family of the Polish military community stand around and watch the tree lighting during the 2nd annual tree lighting at U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, in Poznan, Poland. Today's tree lighting is another tradition built and another step toward the actualization of the U.S. Army's permanent presence in Poland. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
3 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Col. Jeremy McHugh, commander of the U.S. Army Garrison Poland, speaks with local Polish media after the 2nd tree lighting ceremony on December 5 ,2025, in Poznan, Poland. "Today's garrison tree lighting is one of those defining moments in tradition that show we are building a home for America's Soldiers in Poland,” said McHugh during the interview. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
4 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – The U.S. Army Garrison Poland command team, receives a gift from family and friends of the Polish military community after the tree light ceremony on December 5, in Poznan, Poland. This is the second tree lighting ever to be held at the U.S. Army Garrison Poland (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
5 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Members of the Polish Military band play music during the post events of the 2nd tree lighting ceremony in the U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, in Poznan, Poland. The U.S. Army Garrison Poland is a model of host-nation collaboration which builds on trust, shared values, and enduring friendship (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
6 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Santa Claus stands in front of the lighting of the Christmas tree during the 2nd tree lighting ceremony hosted by U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, in Poznan, Poland. Today's tree lighting is another tradition built and another step forward the actualization of the U.S. Army's permanent presence in Poland. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
7 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Students from Primary School No. 09, perform holiday music during the 2nd tree lighting ceremony hosted by U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, in Poznan, Poland. This is the second tree lighting ever to be held in the U.S. Army Garrison Poland (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
8 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Reserve Capt. Suzzanne Conover, battle operations advisor assigned to the 510th Regional Support Group, 7th Mission Support Command, volunteers by serving hot beverages and snacks to attendees of the 2nd tree lighting ceremony on December 5, in Poznan, Poland. U.S. Army Garrison Poland is a model of host-nation collaboration which builds on trust, shared values, and enduring friendship (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
9 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – A singer from the local community sings at the 2nd tree lighting ceremony at U.S. Army Garrison Poland on December 5, 2025, in Poznan, Poland. This is the second tree lighting ever to be held at the U.S. Army Garrison Poland (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Garrison Poland 2nd Tree Lighting
10 / 10 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Attendees pose for photos at a holiday photo booth during the second tree-lighting ceremony on Dec. 5, in Poznań, Poland.. The U.S. Army Garrison Poland is a model of host-nation collaboration which builds on trust, shared values, and enduring friendship (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Stanford Toran) VIEW ORIGINAL