Airmen spread holiday cheer Published Dec. 26, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Chad Thompson 90th Space Wing Public Affairs F. E. Warren AFB, Wyo. -- Operation Provide Joy, a Warren-sponsored program which partnered with the local Salvation Army, offered children a chance to enjoy the holidays in the Trail's End Club Dec. 15. The event gives Warren Airmen and the children a chance to interact, and it gives the Airmen a chance to give back to the community. "The 90th Space Wing relishes any opportunity to support and interact with the community," said Col. Gary Pond, 90th Space Wing vice commander. "The Air Force is not just about flying and fighting, it's also about making a difference in others' lives," he said. More than 90 children from Cheyenne played games, ate, watched an honor guard demonstration and magic show, received presents, visited Santa and spent time with their own Airman for the day. "Seeing the joy on the children's faces and the enthusiasm of our Airmen who volunteered today speaks volumes for the spirit of community service in the 90th Space Wing and the city of Cheyenne," Colonel Pond said. Operation Provide Joy is organized by the Salvation Army with help from the base which has hosted the event since 2000. The Salvation Army picks the children up and transports them to the base where the base volunteers do the rest. "This event is not possible without the selflessness of the men and women that volunteer each year to make sure that every child has a wonderful holiday experience," said Capt. Sarah Glas, 321st Missile Squadron, and this year's project coordinator. Each child received lunch, a gift bag and the chance to talk with the Airmen while holiday music played softly in the background. Several children were wearing security forces berets and flight caps with officer rank given to them by their escort. Funds are raised every year for Operation Provide Joy through local businesses and organizations and the Cheyenne Frontier Days Committee is one of the biggest contributors every year. These funds go toward paying for the Trail's End Club, entertainment, lunch, decorations, and toys.