Children singing holiday songs by tree

Children from Eisenhower Elementary School on base sing holiday songs lead by Melissa Amos, their music teacher, during the Vance Base Tree lighting ceremony Dec. 1. The tree, located near the T-38 static display across from the elementary school, has 725 lights, large ornaments and garland that were hung by members of CSC Applied Technology's civil engineering grounds shop. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Joe B. Wiles)

Mother and son by holiday tree

Melissa Dwyer snaps a picture of her son, Dylan, by the Base Tree following the lighting ceremony held Dec. 1. The tree is decorated with 725 lights, large ornaments and garland that were hung by members of CSC Applied Technology's civil engineering grounds shop. Mrs. Dwyer’s husband, Capt. Rodney Dwyer, is assigned to the 3rd Fighter Training Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Joe B. Wiles)

Vance Base Tree ceremony lights up the holiday night

Published Dec. 2, 2009
By Joe B. Wiles
71st Flying Training Wing

VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- "What an awesome night to think about all our blessings this year," said Col. Chris Nowland, 71st Flying Training Wing commander, during the Base Tree lighting ceremony held Dec. 1.

The tree, located by the T-38 static display near the Hairston (main) Gate, is decorated with 725 lights that came alive when Kate Nash, daughter of Chaplain (Capt.) Zachary Nash, flipped the switch.

"When you drive by this tree, think about what you can do for someone this holiday season," Colonel Nowland added.

With the tree shining brightly, children from Eisenhower Elementary School on base sang holiday songs under the guidance of their music teacher, Melissa Amos. The voices were accompanied by temple blocks and jingle bells played by the children.

Colonel Nowland concluded the ceremony by thanking the chaplains for arranging such excellent weather for the tree lighting.

Hot chocolate and cookies were served at the Vance Collocated Club following the ceremony.