Operation Provide Joy

Paul Ingels, 7, plays with a toy-car set he got from Santa at Operation Provide Joy, in the Fall Hall Community Center, Dec. 15. The annual event gives local children a chance to spend time with F. E. Warren Airmen playing games, visiting with Santa and opening presents. Airman 1st Class Ian Holmberg, 90th Security Forces Group was Woolington’s escort. (U.S. Air Force photo by R.J. Oriez)

Volunteers provide joy to Cheyenne youth

Published Dec. 21, 2012
By 2nd Lt. Christen Downing
90th Missile Wing Public Affairs

F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- Approximately 100 local children gathered in the Fall Hall Community Center Dec. 15 to take part in Operation Provide Joy.

OPJ is annual holiday party organized by the Salvation Army and military volunteers from F. E. Warren.

"The main purpose of this event is to help bring some cheer to kids who might not otherwise have such happy holidays," said 1st Lt. Jeremy Stober, a volunteer coordinator from 90th Operations Group. "Seeing the kids have such an amazing time is the best part of the entire event."

Military members escorted children to different stations that included games, entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus. Children also received a bag of gifts and a holiday meal delivered to their families.

"The most rewarding part is the day of the event when you see all the kids playing and watching them interact with the Airmen who escort them," said 1st Lt. Rachel Weiler, OPJ co-chairman from 90th Operations Support Squadron. "The smiles on their faces and the excitement in the room are contagious. It is a lot of hard work to put on, but every minute of work is worth it."

Lieutenant Doug Hanson, Salvation Army Corps Officer helped plan this event and was there for the children before they got on the bus and when they returned from base.

"The kids' surprised and shocked looks on their faces when they got off the bus showed that they really enjoyed themselves," Hanson said. "To have a Christmas party is rare for these kids and that's what seems to embody the Christmas spirit, not just the day of the 25th."

The 2012 event marked the 13th consecutive year the Salvation Army and Warren military personnel have teamed up to host OPJ.