A simple action can have profound meaning. With the push of a switch, the Fort McPherson Christmas tree went from bland to brilliant, lighting the evening sky and ushering in the holiday season. The tree lighting, which took place Tuesday near the Fort McPherson Post Library, was designed to do more than just add some color and flair to the evening sky. "May the lighting of this Christmas tree encourage us all to embrace the mutual goodwill, understanding and respect for one another," said Col. Deborah B. Grays, U.S. Army Garrison commander. Gen. Charles Campbell, commanding general, U.S. Army Forces Command, shared similar sentiments, in addition to extending his best wishes to all. In wishing his best to all, he reminded those in the audience of the religious significance of the first Christmas, and its story of how a man of peace was born and later went out to preach a simple message that would revolutionize the world. Although not all people celebrate Christmas for religious reasons or in the traditional manner of decorating a tree and awaiting Santa, Grays said no matter what symbols are celebrated, "the Christmas season is a time to slow down and prioritize what is important to us." Based on the line of youngsters waiting to get pictures with Santa Claus, who dropped in to wish children a Merry Christmas and give out candy canes, getting on Santa's good list was a priority for the youth of the post. Among those getting their picture with Santa was Miguel Nieves, 2, son of Staff Sgt. Oscar and Gabriela Nieves. "This is his first time getting his picture with Santa," said Oscar, who also was celebrating his first Christmas on Fort McPherson. Oscar, who is an incoming Soldier at G-2, Third Army/U.S. Army Central, recently transferred from Fort Knox, KY. "It was a chance for us to mingle with people," said Gabriela, a student at Hodges College. Although Miguel was a little scared being in Santa's lap, the Nieves said they enjoyed the event. For making such an event possible, Grays thanked all the sponsors who contributed to the success. These included Reams Enterprise, the Army, Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES), the Defense Commissary Agency, and the USAG Directorate of Family Morale, Welfare and Recreation. Through their support, attendees were provided with ginger bread and vanilla cookies, hot apple cider and hot chocolate drinks. Thanks was also given to the Hapeville Charter Middle School and High School choruses and the Army Ground Forces Band brass ensemble, which provided holiday tunes, such as "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" to ensure the celebration wasn't a "Silent Night."
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