Christmas tree lighting brings holiday cheer to Bagram

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan-- The Chapel Team with 30 of Santa’s helpers endeavored to bring Christmas cheer to deployed Airmen missing their family and friends back home during a Christmas tree lighting ceremony held Dec. 15, 2016 at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan.

“I needed this,” Master Sgt. Alissa Brooks, 455th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron first sergeant. It was a sentiment echoed by many in attendance.

According to participants, the ceremony was a symbol, a light at the end of the tunnel of the deployment, in spite of the hardships that come with it.

“The focus of the night was about bringing hope and cheer to Airmen away from home, and the smiles on people’s faces told that story,” said 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Chaplain (Capt.) Benjamin Quintanilla.     

The night featured the lighting of four decorated Christmas trees, caroling, a bonfire, s’mores, as well as appearances by Santa Claus, Buddy the Elf, Rudolf, and the Grinch.