FORT CAVAZOS, TEXAS; December 12th
The holiday season opened at Fort Cavazos with the soft glow of countless lights rising into the night as the installation held its annual tree lighting ceremony. The UNITED STATES ARMY described the gathering as one of the most cherished traditions observed on post each year with soldiers families and visitors filling the lawn to witness the lighting of the tall evergreen that stands as the symbol of the season for the community. The ceremony brought together service members from many units along with the families who support them and the evening carried a sense of unity that is often especially meaningful for those who serve far from their homes of origin.
The official account explained that the proceedings began with greetings from leadership who welcomed the assembled crowd and spoke briefly on the significance of the season. Children were then invited to join the dignitaries for the countdown that would awaken the great tree. The crowd lifted its voice as the final number was spoken and in an instant the tree shone to life drawing cheers and applause that echoed across the installation. The Army noted that the moment has become a yearly reminder of the closeness shared by the Fort Cavazos community and of the strength drawn from gathering together during a season that carries both reflection and celebration.
The release described how the festival atmosphere stretched across the grounds surrounding the tree. Families moved between stations offering refreshments and small activities for children while soldiers volunteered their time to guide visitors and ensure that each portion of the event flowed smoothly. Music played through the evening and the crowd soon turned its attention to the arrival of Santa who remained the highlight for many of the youngest in attendance. The Army stated that Santa’s appearance is a beloved feature of the ceremony and that his presence lends a familiar charm which families look forward to each year.
Beyond the festivities themselves the Army highlighted the deeper purpose served by the annual tree lighting. The ceremony offers soldiers and families a brief respite from the tempo of military life allowing them to gather in fellowship and to strengthen the bonds that sustain them through deployments training cycles and the daily responsibilities that accompany service. The event also stands as a welcome for those newly arrived at the installation who find in this gathering an early sense of place and belonging. Leadership emphasized that these shared moments contribute to the enduring resilience of the community and remain an essential part of life on post.
As the evening progressed families lingered under the glow of the lights that illuminated the lawn and the towering tree above. Children carried small treats and crafts from the surrounding stations while soldiers exchanged greetings with neighbors and friends. The Army reported that the turnout reflected both the enthusiasm of the community and the dedication of the volunteers whose efforts brought the ceremony to life. For many of those present the event marked not only the beginning of festive celebrations but also a treasured tradition that has come to define the spirit of the season at Fort Cavazos.
The night concluded with the tree standing bright against the December sky its lights casting a warm reflection across the installation. The UNITED STATES ARMY stated that the ceremony remains one of the most anticipated gatherings of the year and continues to serve as a symbol of unity goodwill and shared purpose within the Fort Cavazos community.
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Sources
• UNITED STATES ARMY official report titled Fort Hood lights up holidays with tree lighting ceremony published by Army Public Affairs for Fort Cavazos
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