Seasonal festivities, fun invade Sheppard

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jelani Gibson
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The sound of laughter, merriment and family activities could be heard Dec. 12 at the Solid Rock Café as Airmen here enjoyed holiday activities meant to usher in seasonal fun.

The Christmas Hanukah celebration was held with a focus on family and morale readiness so Airmen could put their minds at ease and relax.

Within the snow-white hallways of the chapel lie guitar performances, festival games and educational booths treating children and parents alike to a day of fun and mental well-being.

"We try to make an event that pleases the community and their spiritual needs," said Capt. Matthew Clouse, 82nd Training Wing chaplain. "We have a community that represents different faith groups."

As the activities continued throughout the chapel, meals were also being eagerly handed out to those in attendance to foster a more nurturing environment.

"Our target audience is the families," Clouse said. "It's such a great time for the kids and parents."

While families ate, enjoyed games and took in holiday regalia, Clouse helped coordinate the event so Airmen could be prepared in more ways than one.

"When they have faith, they have an extra element to call upon," Clouse said. "This is the next generation. They are going to carry the torch of that faith."

Staff Sgt. Karriem Oliver, 82nd Training Wing chaplain assistant, wanted to focus the event on families because he views the dependants and spouses as an extension of the Air Force.

"Our job is people," he said. "It's a great opportunity to share the spirit of the holiday with everybody; it's a multi faith event. We reach out to the whole base population."

Through the brisk winter evening, the sound of gaiety and glee could be heard as Airmen spent a night of revelry with those whom they cherished the most.