Photo By Shauna C Sowersby | "OMG Santa's here, I know him!" Buddy the Elf shares an exuberant moment with Santa at...... read more read more
Story and photos by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shauna C. Sowersby, Naval Hospital Bremerton Public Affairs
BREMERTON, WASH. - Santa and Buddy the Elf visited the Naval Hospital Bremerton quarterdeck on Thursday, Dec. 17 to encourage morale and share a little holiday cheer among hospital staff members, patients and visitors.
Santa was played by Lt. Shawn Redmon, Navy Chaplain Corps assigned to NHB Pastoral Care Department, and Buddy the Elf was portrayed by Religious Program Specialist 3rd Class Petty Officer Kaleib Taylor.
Along with meeting and greeting all those who came to the venue, the two also provided a nine-foot long submarine sandwich for hospital staff and provided photo opportunities for staff members, their families, and all those interested.
“Nobody goes to a hospital because they feel good,” said Taylor, describing the idea behind their informal holiday get together. “We figured this would be a good morale builder right before the holidays.”
Redmon said the idea was a collaborative effort on behalf of the Pastoral Care Department team of Cmdr. Bruce Crouterfield, Redmon, Taylor, and RP3 Dzoara Pena.
“We want staff members to know we’re here not just spiritually but also for people to come and talk to whenever they need someone to listen,” said Taylor.
Toddlers visiting the hospital with their parents were surprised to see and receive greetings from Santa and Buddy the Elf, a movie character made popular by actor Will Ferrell in the film “Elf” that was released in 2003.
When asked why that character was chosen, Taylor attested it was due to the simple combinations of size, height and uncanny resemblance.
“With the wig and elf costume, we really do look alike, but I am ready to take it off, at least until next year,” Taylor said.
Chaplain Redmon said he is hoping this will become an annual celebration.
| Date Taken: | 12.17.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 12.18.2015 10:16 |
| Story ID: | 184898 |
| Location: | BREMERTON, WASHINGTON, US |
| Web Views: | 98 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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