Fort McPherson kicks off holiday season

By Mr. Jamesdenton Wyllie (IMCOM)December 2, 2010

Fort McPherson kicks off holiday season
1 / 6 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Military children help Dee Thurman, wife of Gen. James Thurman, commanding general, U.S. Army Forces Command, pull a candy cane lever to light three Christmas trees during Fort McPherson’s tree-lighting ceremony held at The Commons at Fort McPherson ... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
Fort McPherson kicks off holiday season
2 / 6 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
Fort McPherson kicks off holiday season
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Fort McPherson kicks off holiday season
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Fort McPherson kicks off holiday season
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Fort McPherson kicks off holiday season
6 / 6 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed writes holiday well wishes for Tarryanna Hightower (center), 9, and her cousins, Sandrick Winston (right), 10, and Dashana Winston (rear), 11. The girls attended the ceremony with veteran George Bloodsaw, Sandrick and Dashana... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

With the pull of a lever, the tree lit up and Fort McPherson ushered in the start of its final holiday season.

The tree-lighting ceremony, which took place Tuesday evening at The Commons at Fort McPherson, joins the list of Fort McPherson traditions that will never be seen again. However, although the significance of the larger circumstances surrounding the ceremony was not lost on those in attendance, the occasion was still enjoyed with cheer and spirit.

"I'm glad you have joined me as we continue our holiday tree tradition here at Fort McPherson," said Col. Deborah Grays, U.S. Army Garrison commander. "May the lighting of this Christmas tree encourage us all to embrace the mutual goodwill, understanding and respect for one another; pray it provides an opportunity to focus on what's important and remain resilient."

With carols sung by the Fort McPherson holiday choir, a word of thanks from Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, and a surprise visit from Santa Claus, those in attendance had plenty of reasons to follow Gray's advice.