Rolling Thunder brings holiday cheer

  • Published
  • By Dora Mays
  • MacDill AFB Airman and Family Readiness Center
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Since the fun and festivities ended last year, the member's of Chapters six and eleven of Florida Rolling Thunder have been shopping and collecting toys in anticipation of the day when they will bring the joy of Christmas to several unsuspecting military families on MacDill Air Force Base. That long awaited day arrived Dec. 18 when a Christmas party complete with Santa and Mrs. Clause, the elves, and toys galore convened on the MacDill AFB Chapel.

This was the 16th year Chapter One of the American Ex POWs in Florida sponsored a Christmas party in honor of the children of military members. "This is just one of the many ways they demonstrate their support for their comrades who are making the honorable sacrifice of life to defend this country and the freedom it stands for," said Fran Harrison, Chapter Six of the Florida Rolling Thunder.

No one understands the significance of that sacrifice more than the American Ex POWs. Last year John and Fran Harrison of Chapter Six of the Florida Rolling Thunder provided an extra pair of hands to the Ex POWs in their party efforts and this year led the way for the event. The efforts of Chapters six and eleven of Florida Rolling Thunder on behalf of the American Ex POWs contributed to 41 families, and 103 children receiving more than 300 gifts of toys and stuffed animals. Two bicycles and a miniature Christmas tree were also raffled off, while snacks, music, excitement, and laughter filled Annex 2 at the Base Chapel.

A photographer took complimentary family photos with the "Big Guy in the Red Suit." At the end of the event, the Spirit of Christmas lingered in the air. The event was hosted by the Airman & Family Readiness Center as a Year of the Air Force Family Event open to all mission partners.