Operation Provide Joy: Sharing smiles with Cheyenne children Published Dec. 10, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Chad Thompson 90th Space Wing Public Affairs F. E. Warren AFB, Wyo. -- There was a festive feeling in the air: Santa sitting in his chair, children with painted faces running around, holiday music playing softly in the background and wrapped gifts lying on the floor. The room was filled with children playing, smiling, laughing and shedding joyful tears because this holiday celebration had special meaning -- it was something not all of these children have had the chance to experience. This was last year's scene during Operation Provide Joy and the organizers hope that this year will be no different. Operation Provide Joy is scheduled for Dec. 15, and Capt. Sarah Glas, 321st Missile Squadron, is this year's project coordinator. "My hope is that Operation Provide Joy 2007 continues in the tradition of giving back to our community," Captain Glas said. "Nothing is more heartwarming than seeing a child's face light up at the sight of Santa with a large bag of gifts just for them." Operation Provide Joy is a Warren-sponsored program that offers about 80 to 100 underprivileged children in the Cheyenne area an opportunity to experience a holiday party. "We work closely with the Salvation Army of Cheyenne to get children signed up for this event every year," Captain Glas said. "We raise funds every year through local businesses and organizations to pay for this program. These funds go toward paying for the Trail's End Club, entertainment, lunch, decorations, toys, and any other miscellaneous expenses that may arise." The base provides either police escort or fire trucks to transport the children around base. Each child receives a military escort in service dress which greets them as they arrive for lunch and entertainment at the Trail's End Club. Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves hand out large gift bags to everyone. These bags are filled with toys and everything needed for a proper holiday dinner. "Operation Provide Joy has become something that people at Warren and the local community look forward to every year," Captain Glas said. "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." The Cheyenne Frontier Days Committee is the biggest off-base supporter of this event and the queen and lady in waiting will be there. Gifts and food donations are still being accepted and volunteers are still needed. For more information call Captain Glas at 773-4962.