An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Photo Information

Jocelyn Jakubowski kicks off the 16th annual Christmas tree lighting at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Dec. 4, 2015. The event featured holiday music, refreshments, door prizes, visits from Santa and the lighting of a Christmas tree. The purpose of the event was to kick off the holiday season, and support the military families at MCAS Cherry Point. Jakubowski is the director of Marine Corps Family Team Building at the air station. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Nicholas P. Baird/ Released)

Photo by Pfc. Nicholas P. Baird

16th annual Christmas tree lighting sparks holiday cheer at Cherry Point

7 Dec 2015 | Pfc. Nicholas P. Baird Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point

Service members and their families came together to spark the start of the holiday season with the 16th annual Christmas tree lighting at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., Dec. 4, 2015.

The lighting included events visits with Santa, a raffle for door prizes and an outdoor screening of a holiday movie.

“The purpose of the event is to kick off the holiday season and support our military families with Christmas cheer,” said Beth J. McKenzie, the marketing director for Marine Corps Community Services at MCAS Cherry Point. “This lighting allowed the families to enjoy some free holiday fun in a safe environment.”

McKenzie explained this was the 16th year the Christmas tree lighting has taken place aboard the air station, and participation has grown substantially over the years.

“We have everything here tonight that you would expect,” said Col. Chris Pappas III, MCAS Cherry Point commanding officer. “We have a tree, movie, food and, of course, Santa. This is always a phenomenal family event, and I would like to thank all of the families who have joined us tonight.”

A special thanks went out to the members of MCCS and event sponsors for contributing to the lighting.

 “I would like all of the families at this event to keep all of the Marines and Sailors who are deployed and can’t be here with us tonight in your prayers,” said Pappas. “I know you all work hard, and we thank you all for your service.”
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point