Sending holiday joy

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Whitney Stanfield
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The Officer and Civilian Spouses Organization (OCSC) is conducting their annual cookie drive for deployed Airmen and those living in the dorms to give a bit of cheer during the holidays and thank them for their service.

Base members and the local community are encouraged to contribute cookies that can be either homemade or store bought.

"It is important to include our community in the Annual Cookie Drive because they are supportive of our military servicemembers and our military community," said Angela Ruona, OCSC representative.

The OCSC is active in many charities on-and-off base, but this event is directly for the Airmen. Showing the importance of every Air Force family member during the holiday is the goal of the OCSC.

"I feel it is a wonderful thing to do for the Airmen. It is especially difficult to be away from family during the holidays, and the smallest gesture can make the biggest difference," said Ruona.

Cookie donations can range from anything from the traditional chocolate chip and beyond. Contributors are asked to provide notices with cookies that contain nuts in the interests of those with allergies.

Along with each cookie package comes hand-made holiday cards. Normally, children in the local community make the Christmas cards to shows appreciation to Airmen for their service. This year, the 4th Force Support Squadron Community Center held a Christmas Cards for Airmen drive for base members to contribute cards also.

"Hosting the Christmas Cards for Airmen drive helps the base boost the number of cards contributed to Airmen," said Shawna Morton, director of Heritage Hall Community Center.

To donate to the Airmen's Cookie Drive, take holiday cookies to the Heritage Hall Dec. 8 and 9 or the morning of the 12 and place them in the sleigh. Cookies will be packed on Dec. 12.
For more information contact Angela Ruona, 919-288-1695 or a5ruona@msn.com.