• KAISERSLAUTERN MILITARY COMMUNITY, Germany

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) worked with the United Service Organizations (USO) to express gratitude to military members based in the military community here.

This year marked the 24th annual USO “Thanks For Thanksgiving” event, which aims to distribute approximately 700 meal packages to families in need.

Events at Germany’s Baumholder and Vogelweh Military Complex created a festive atmosphere for junior enlisted service members and their families.

“Thanksgiving is a time for connection, reflection and gratitude,” said Col. Everett “Bud” Lacroix, Exchange Europe/Southwest Asia/Africa Region commander.

“This event is more than just a meal — it’s about showing our junior service members that they are part of a larger family that stands behind them,” he explained.

FREE HOLIDAY MEALS … AND MORE

The annual USO “Thanks For Thanksgiving” event provided free holiday meals to junior enlisted service members with dependents.

Each meal included a turkey, side dishes, rolls, dessert and gift cards from Service Credit Union, ensuring families have everything for a festive meal.

“The Exchange is committed to supporting our troops,” Lacroix said. “It’s heartwarming to see our leaders and community come together to make this holiday special for those who serve far from home.”

The Vogelweh Military Complex featured a drive-thru, where Exchange associates distributed warm Krispy Kreme doughnuts and coffee.

Meanwhile, the USO provided breakfast burritos, hot chocolate and bottled water.

Sgt. Maj. Ashley Ikegwuonu, the Exchange’s Europe/Southwest Asia/Africa Region senior enlisted advisor, and Lt. Col. Katheryn Hanson, the Exchange’s Europe/Southwest Asia Southwest Asia/Africa Region Public Health and Food Safety advisor and Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection officer, made the trip to the USO’s second location in Baumholder to greet families and distribute turkeys and fixings.

Source: AAFES
Edited by Larry Lapka