There is a great deal of prior planning that goes into an event like this. First, there is the coordination with the CSM to get the information on the families, i.e., ages, sizes, addresses, phone numbers, etc. Coordination must be made directly with each family to set a time for Santa Claus' visit. The team gathered at my home for coffee and organizing. Then the team loaded into the motor home to allow everyone to get through Fort Lewis gate security and the motor home allowed room for transporting all the gifts as well. The morning was spent purchasing food, clothing and toys. We

assembled all of these items and tagged them for delivery and placed a St. John's brochure in every box. We paused for a snack, met with CSM Matt Barnes who joined, and we set out to make deliveries.


 

Our own Santa Claus clearly had the most fun and the elves all enjoyed it as well. The children are really special... the looks and smiles tell it all!! Christmas is a special time and the enjoyment we are able to bring to those families, that may not have been so bright prior to our deliveries, is truly amazing. Every elf was moved by the experience, and Santa is still... Ho, Ho, Ho-ing... It was unanimously agreed at our pizza dinner back at my home that, we clearly made a difference for these military families. We thank St. John's Lodge and gifts from

several of the Brethren for making this event possible.