Photo By Sgt. Myenn LaMotta | U.S. Army Cpt. Jamie Webb, a behavioral health officer for the 36th Engineer Brigade,...... read more read more
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A Rugged Wish: How One Holiday Program Warms the Hearts of Many
Capt. Jamie Webb Transforms Holiday Wishes into Heartfelt Realities, Proving that Service Extends Beyond the Uniform.
By Pfc. Stanislav Mitchell
As winter’s chill settles in every holiday season, warmth radiates from Capt. Jamie Webb, a behavioral health officer with the 36th Engineer Brigade, stationed at Fort Cavazos, TX. Her mission, however, extends beyond her military duties. Through the Rugged Wish Program, Webb ensures that children in need experience the magic of the holidays, one wish at a time.
Launched in 2013 while volunteering as a civilian spouse with the 1st Medical Brigade, the program has grown into a beacon of hope for families facing financial difficulties. What began as a small initiative in her husband’s unit has blossomed into a brigade-wide effort supported by Soldiers and volunteers.
“I’ve always believed that service and unexpected acts of kindness create meaningful connections, build cohesion, and foster high morale,” Webb reflected. “The Rugged Wish Program is my way of showing love for our Soldiers and their families. Seeing the relief on a Soldier’s face when they receive their family’s gifts is indescribable.”
Webb's motivation came from personal experience. As a previously single mother who had worked multiple jobs to support her young daughter, she understands the challenges parents face during the holidays. “I know what it feels like to worry about paying bills versus buying groceries,” Webb said. “I wanted to ensure no child feels forgotten, especially during a time when joy should be abundant.”
In the early years, Webb encountered logistical and legal obstacles. "The first couple of years were tough. I definitely heard a lot of no’s before I pieced together enough yes’s to make it happen," Webb said. "At times, I was running the program out of my garage, and there were moments when I wasn’t sure we’d meet the demand."
Despite these challenges, the Rugged Wish Program has profoundly impacted the lives of those it touches. Webb recalls a particularly poignant experience: “There was a single parent we supported one year. What she didn’t tell me at the time was that one of her children had osteosarcoma. Months later, I ran into her in the community, and she told me her son had passed away.”
Webb's voice faltered as she continued, “When you realize you were a part of a child’s last Christmas, it’s incredibly powerful and humbling. Unfortunately, that’s not the only child we supported on their final Christmas.”
Another story illustrates the depth of the program’s impact. “One year, we learned about two children who had been sleeping on the floor because their family couldn’t afford beds. A sponsor bought a trundle bed, mattresses, and all the bedding. That was the first time in months those kids had a comfortable place to sleep. It’s so much more than toys and smiles; it’s moments like those when you know you’re truly making a difference,” Webb said.
Webb’s daughter, Solana Anderson, is among those most impacted by Webb’s dedication. Growing up with a mother who balances military service and a philanthropic mission has profoundly influenced her. "My mom inspires me every day," Anderson shared. "Watching her
work so hard to help others, even after long days in uniform, shows me the kind of person I want to be."
Anderson’s involvement has grown over the years. What began as accompanying her mother evolved into a passionate commitment to helping other children. "I remember the first time I helped with the program when I was eight; now, it feels like a part of who I am. It’s something we do together, and it brings us closer."
Webb started this holiday support program with the 1st Medical Brigade from 2013 to 2017 as a civilian spouse. She was commissioned in 2018 and, after returning to Fort Cavazos in 2020, brought the program to the 3rd Cavalry Regiment. When she was assigned to the 36th Engineer Brigade in 2022, the program again migrated with her. In just the past two years, the program has supported 179 children from 85 families across four military installations, with over $49,000 in necessary items such as winter clothing, shoes, and diapers. Over the eight years Webb has organized this holiday support program, she has supported hundreds of families with over $110,000 in donated items.
For Webb, this is only the beginning. “I would love for other Brigades beyond Fort Cavazos to establish their support programs. There are so many children who need help, and I believe this program can touch even more lives,” Webb said.
For Webb, the Rugged Wish Program is more than a holiday charity. It’s a testament to the power of giving and the impact of military service beyond the battlefield. "At the end of the day, it’s about showing Soldiers that we’re willing to support those they value most when they need it the most. It’s about giving them a sense of dignity and relief. It’s about being a family and taking care of one another. That’s the greatest gift we can give them," Webb said.
As the holidays approach, Capt. Jamie Webb continues to inspire those around her. Through the Rugged Wish Program, she proves that the season's true spirit lies in selfless service and the joy of giving. While the journey hasn't been without struggles, each challenge has only strengthened Webb, her team, and the community they serve.
For more information about the Rugged Wish Program or to get involved, please get in touch with Capt. Jamie Webb at Jamie.L.Webb26.mil@army.mil.
| Date Taken: | 09.12.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 09.13.2024 11:25 |
| Story ID: | 480728 |
| Location: | FORT CAVAZOS, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 78 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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