Tree Lighting Ceremony Kicks-off Holiday Season

By Paul Hughes, Rock Island Arsenal-Garrison Public AffairsDecember 6, 2010

Tree Lighting Ceremony Kicks-off Holiday Season
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Rock Island, Ill. - U.S. Army Garrison-Rock Island Arsenal played host to the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, Thursday, Dec. 2, at Bldg. 60, Heritage Hall.

"I'm very pleased to have such a large crowd on hand for this wonderful event," said Joel Himsl, Garrison Manager, Rock Island Arsenal. "The holiday season is a great time of happiness for all families. It is also a time to remember those who protect this nation, our Soldiers, Sailors, Airman, Marines and Coast Guard personnel, and their Families. I also ask that you remember the ultimate sacrifice of our fallen warriors, and the Families they have left behind. Please have a safe and happy holiday season."

Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves presided over the ceremony, providing gifts and holiday cheer for the large crowd. Santa led the crowd in a thunderous, "Ho, ho, ho," as the holiday tree lights came on. Morale, Welfare, and Recreation, provided apple cider and cookies, while the choir from St. Ambrose University, sang classic holiday songs.

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