Previous Stories

"Hugs for the Holidays" helps children connect with deployed loved ones

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nick Wilson
  • 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany --  Being in the military can be tough for many families, especially when loved ones are deployed during the holidays. In spite of the difficulties servicemembers face while away from their home stations, students at Spangdahlem Elementary School found a way to make them feel closer to home.

"Hugs for the Holidays" is an annual activity that helps children communicate with loved ones deployed during the holidays by making a life-size, decorated, paper cutout of themselves in the SES gym Dec. 9.

"I can only Imagine how parents would feel when they open up a package sent from their child with a life-size replica of their child," said Barbara Triplett, SES guidance counselor

The idea for the event originated from Ms. Triplett, who has been leading "Hugs for the Holidays" at SES for more than 17 years.

About 35 SES students and 13 Saber volunteers participated in the event. Some volunteers participated to help make that special connection between the students and their deployed parents.

"Hugs for the Holidays is a great program for (children of deployed servicemembers). It allows them to connect with their deployed parent in a special way... something that the parents will really appreciate. I feel honored to be helping in making that connection," said Mindy Lundrum, a Saber volunteer.

Other volunteers participated to interact with the students.

"Being a young, single Airman, I don't know what it's like to leave behind a family for such a long period of time," said Airman Jessica Melchin, 52nd Logistics Readiness Squadron. "I can only imagine how difficult it must be. [Being] here, talking to the children, I can see how hard it is on them, as well."

"Hugs for the Holidays" aims to boost morale and provide a connection between children and their deployed family members during the holidays.

" We get to interact with the kids and help them out," said Airman 1st Class Tanya Toothaker, 606th Air Control Squadron. "I know when my father deployed, all we wanted to do was show him we missed him [with our] drawings. So, helping kids do the same is awesome."
Previous Story
Next Story