Officials plan JBER’s first base-wide holiday tree lighting event for Dec. 5

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Mike Hammond
  • JBER Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  JBER will host its first installation-wide holiday tree lighting event Dec. 5, outside the base Commissary.

In previous years, there were separate ceremonies for the Army and Air Force sides of the base. Air Force Col. Brian Duffy, JBER and 673d Air Base Wing commander, set in motion a plan to establish one ceremony to allow all members of the joint base to celebrate the holiday season together, according to Air Force Chaplain (Capt.) Scott Savell, project coordinator.

"With the help of many people from around the base, and the generous support of numerous agencies, we've set up an event this year that promises to be truly memorable," Savell said. "The 773d Civil Engineer Squadron identified a suitable tree and successfully transplanted it in the area to the left of the Commissary entrance. The plan is for that tree to stand for many years as the JBER holiday tree."

In addition to the new tree, the lighting ceremony - which will officially begin just after the National Anthem plays at 5 p.m. - will feature a visit from Santa, reindeer, holiday music and carols, and refreshments. Activities will start at 4:45 p.m.

The tree lighting will occur just after 5 p.m., followed by a holiday extravaganza and the arrival of a special guest from the North Pole.

Savell encouraged Soldiers, Airmen, civilians, and family members to attend and help make this first joint celebration a festive one.

"We'd love to see as many folks come out as possible," Savell said. "It's important for people to know the event is going to be outdoors, and therefore it's important to dress according to the elements. But rain or snow, cold or colder, this is a chance to be part of a historic first while kicking off the holiday season with family, friends, and co-workers."

For more information, contact the JBER chaplain's office at 552-4422.