Photo By Pfc. Carlos Marquez | Santa Claus poses with U.S. Soldiers in civilian attire in front of the lit Christmas...... read more read more
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MIHAIL KOGĂLNICEANU AIR BASE, Romania – Soldiers came together to celebrate the holiday season during a two-day Christmas event hosted by the U.S. Army Garrison, Black Sea, and the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) team at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base (MKAB), Romania on Dec. 5-6, 2024. The event featured a ceremonial Christmas tree lighting, live performances, and a festive holiday market.
“The U.S. Army Garrison, Black Sea, is proud to host this annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony and holiday market for our soldiers,” said Lt. Col. Christopher P. Kuszniaj, U.S. Army Garrison Black Sea commander. “Being away from home during the holiday season can be challenging, and our goal is to create a sense of home here at MKAB. Events like this remind our soldiers that they are supported and appreciated during their time of service abroad.”
The celebration opened on Dec. 5 with remarks from Kuszniaj, followed by an invocation from the chaplain and a performance by a local children’s choir. Soldiers and guests gathered near the brightly decorated Christmas tree outside the MWR Theater as Santa Claus made his grand entrance on a fire truck to light the tree.
The holiday market featured a variety of crafts, decorations, and gifts from local vendors. Food tents offered grilled favorites like chicken skewers and pork sausage, while a brightly lit food truck served sweet treats such as churros and pancakes. Soldiers enjoyed warm meals and explored the festive market, creating moments of connection and camaraderie.
“Since I can’t celebrate with my family back home, being able to build close-knit connections with other soldiers here, helps bring the Christmas spirit alive,” said Sgt. Abigail Potts, assigned to the 223rd Military Police Company, Kentucky National Guard.
For many, the event offered an opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit despite being away from home.
“We bought costumes, and it makes us feel like one big family,” said Pfc. Lillian Mosely, 223rd Military Police Company, Kentucky National Guard. “Even though we’re not home with our families, it makes the holiday really enjoyable.”
On Dec. 6, the event continued with a performance by a scouts’ choir, who delivered a lively selection of holiday songs. Soldiers and guests once again enjoyed the holiday market, food vendors, and the welcoming ambiance created by the glowing Christmas tree.
“Events like this bring the Christmas spirit here, even though we’re far from home,” said Spc. Karissa Hudson, 223rd Military Police Company, Kentucky National Guard. “It’s about being close to the people you’re here with and celebrating the holiday spirit together.”
The Christmas event at MKAB highlighted the importance of community, resilience, and unity among soldiers deployed overseas. The participation of local Romanian vendors further strengthened ties between U.S. service members and the host nation, making the event a shared experience for all.
“This event shows the importance of coming together, even during a deployment,” said Kuszniaj. “It’s about making the most of where we are and finding joy in the season.”
As the event concluded, soldiers gathered around the brightly lit Christmas tree, taking photos with Santa Claus and enjoying the festive atmosphere. The two-day celebration highlighted the importance of community and camaraderie, offering a meaningful way to mark the holiday season for those stationed abroad.
| Date Taken: | 12.05.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 12.06.2024 16:28 |
| Story ID: | 486802 |
| Location: | MIHAIL KOGALNICEANU, RO |
| Web Views: | 20 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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