Let there be light! Chapel kicks off holiday season at Dyess

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Carolyn Viss
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The 7th Bomb Wing Chapel staff welcomed about 130 military members, their families, and members of the local news media in front of the base chapel Dec. 3 to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season at Dyess. 

Following the invocation by Ch. (Maj.) Michael Daniel, Staff Sgt. Marland Fox provided an historical background of Hanukkah. He was then joined by his family in singing a Hanukkah song, which highlighted the holiday's festivities. 

"It was a very successful event, and many families commented that they very much enjoyed attending," said Ch. (Capt.) James Galyon. 

The event was up in attendance about 50 percent from last year, according to Ch. (Lt. Col.) Dan Crawford, 7th BW chaplain. 

"It's very important for our Air Force members to appreciate the diversity that exists in the Air Force family," Chaplain Galyon said. "It's important to have a grasp on the various faiths so that we may appreciate the beliefs and respect the traditions that others share." 

At the event, Chaplain Galyon discussed the meaning of Christmas then introduced Col. Gavin Ketchen, 7th BW vice commander. Colonel Ketchen spoke about the Christmas tree and Menorah symbolizing ideals many Americans esteem: peace, hope and love. Joined by his wife, Debbie, and their children, along with Patty Gass, Colonel Ketchen flipped the switch, turning on the holiday lights. 

"The word holiday comes from a root meaning 'holy day' so these are significant days, spiritually," Chaplain Galyon said. "Therefore, Air Force members should respect and practice religious accommodation. One of our primary functions as chaplains is to make sure that happens." 

Of special significance this year was the fact that this holiday season falls before the 7th Bomb Wing deploys its B-1 bombers and hundreds more Airmen, Chaplain Galyon said.
"It's very important for families to observe their own traditions and spend time together on days that carry large significance," he said. "It's important for them in the present and will carry significance for them well into the future, especially during the days they may not be able to be with their families because of other military obligations." 

The event ended with "Away in a Manger" led by Betty Ann Blackburn and the Dyess Base Chapel Choir and a benediction from Ch. (Capt.) Gildardo Garcia. Everyone's attention was focused shortly thereafter upon fire engine sirens and flashing lights as Dyess firefighters escorted Santa to the celebration. Santa led the group inside, where everyone enjoyed hot cider, cocoa and cookies, served by the Catholic Women of the Chapel. Children lined up quickly to sit on Santa's lap and tell him about their wish lists. They didn't leave empty handed, either, as the Dyess Chapel provided gift bags to each child. 

"The children were happy they each got a toy and got to chat with Santa," Chaplain Galyon said. "It was a great way to usher in the season." 

Chaplain Crawford, the entire chapel staff, and the Protestant and Roman Catholic congregations thank everyone who participated in the preparation and implementation of this event.