Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Brings in the Holidays for GTMO Residents

News: Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Brings in the Holidays for GTMO Residents

Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba

Follow This Unit

Story by Terence Peck Follow This Journalist

GUANTANAMO, Cuba - Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba held its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony for the community at the Navy Exchange on Nov. 27.

The event was hosted by Cmdr. William Rabchenia, the naval station’s executive officer and Command Master Chief J.D. McKinney and included cheerleaders, dancers and a child chorus that provided entertainment to those who attended.

“The community participation in our annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony was inspirational and encouraging,” said McKinney. “That interaction with our neighbors was the best way to reflect back on the year's events and kick off the holiday season.”

After the entertainment at the NEX, attendees drove or walked down the street to watch the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree that sets atop a hill across from the bachelor’s officer’s quarters.

“The Christmas tree lighting was a culmination of lots of planning and many hands coming together for the good of the GTMO community,” McKinney said.

Many people who attended enjoyed the event.

“I thought it was awesome,” said Ralph Densmore, NAVSTA Physical Security Officer. “[The] children were energetic and put on a marvelous performance. You could see the excitement of Christmas in their faces and actions.”