Angel Tree children need your help

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Sheri Kangas
  • 1st SOW Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  It's that time of year; time to shop 'til you drop. While out shopping for gifts for loved ones, it's important to remember those who run out of money before energy.

The Hurlburt Field Company Grade Officers' Council is taking their part in helping less fortunate base members by setting up an Angel Tree in the base exchange lobby.

"Last year there were 186 angels taken from the tree and more than $11,000 worth of gifts donated directly supporting Hurlburt families," said Col. Tim Leahy, 1st Special Operations Wing vice commander. "This Angel Tree project is a great way to celebrate the Holiday season with its focus on giving and taking care of our Airmen."

The decorated Christmas tree holds names of children ranging from newborn to 17 years old. "Each angel has the name of a boy or girl, their age, and most have clothing, shoe sizes and the child's interests," said 2nd Lt. Lori Bartz, CGOC member. The program is open to all base military and civilian personnel. "All people have to do to get their children in the program is talk with their first sergeant."

Each angel also has directions on the back for the gift giver. All one has to do is take an angel off the tree, buy the appropriate gift(s) for that child and drop them off in the boxes located by the tree. "There is no price range and we ask the buyer to drop off the presents unwrapped," Lieutenant Bartz said.

The application submission deadline is Dec. 8. For more information, call Lieutenant Bartz at 884-1233 or contact your squadron first sergeant.