Trees for Troops spreads holiday spirit

By admin

Posted on December 6, 2019

By Scott Prater | Mountaineer staff

FORT CARSON, Colo. — The Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (DFMWR) is partnering with FedEx and the Colorado Christmas Spirit Foundation to provide a free Christmas tree to Soldiers and Families.

There’s no time for indecision or delay, however, as FedEx is delivering the trees to Fort Carson Dec. 6, 2019, and DFMWR staff will be distributing them Dec. 6, 2019, only.

This marks the 11th year the organizations have partnered to provide Christmas Trees to Soldiers and Families at Fort Carson.

“This year’s Trees for Troops event will be a bit different than in past years,” said Brandy Foe, DFMWR special events coordinator. “The distribution event will be split into two segments – those holding vouchers can pick up a tree from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the west side of the football field, west of Ivy Physical Fitness Center. The second distribution is open to the Fort Carson Community, on a first-come first-served basis, starting at 5:30 p.m. and lasting until 8:30 p.m. at the same location (while supplies last).

The voucher program is need-based and Command Sgt. Maj. Kenyatta L. Mack, U.S. Army Garrison Fort Carson, senior enlisted leader, is handling distribution of the vouchers to unit leaders on post. Units are responsible for ensuring vouchers are distributed to appropriate personnel.

“Soldiers looking for a voucher for a free Christmas tree should see their unit leadership,” said Lorraine Thorson, DFMWR intramural sports director. “DFMWR does not have the vouchers, so cannot distribute to inquirers.”

“We expect the trees to go quickly,” Thorson said. “Unlike in past years though, Soldiers and Families won’t walk through the selection and pick their favorite.”

DFMWR staff will pre-cut the bottom of each tree and help Soldiers and Families who need assistance to load the trees onto car tops and truck beds as they drive into the area.