1ID FWD Soldiers help the needy in Poznań on Christmas Eve

241st Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
Story by Staff Sgt. Scott Longstreet

Date: 12.24.2019
Posted: 12.26.2019 12:14
News ID: 357259
1ID FWD Soldiers help the needy in Poznań on Christmas Eve

POZNAŃ, Poland- Soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division Forward brought some much-needed Christmas cheer to less needy citizens at the premises of the Poznań International Fair in Poznań on December 24.

Approximately 20 Soldiers based in the city and 1,000 other volunteers from the Greater Poland schools and Caritas, assisted with serving a Christmas Eve meal to 1,400 less fortunate citizens in the community.

Citizens who attended the dinner were served carp, borscht, cabbage and potatoes. Also served, as part of the celebration was the traditional wafer, which is shared with others. On hand was the President of Poznań, Jacek Jaśkowiak, to shake hands and celebrate the day with his townspeople.

“This is the largest and most beautiful Christmas Eve in Poland,” he said. “I wish everyone here, not just on Christmas Eve, but every day, good wishes and remind them that they do not need to feel lonely.”

Citizens arrived to the event and were served their meals while clergy visited, prayed and talked to them. The people visited with each other and enjoyed fellowship as well. The Servicemembers on hand assisted where needed.

“Several of our Soldiers asked if there were places they could help out over the holidays and thankfully the president’s office contacted us about this opportunity,” said Maj. David M. Johnston, 1ID FWD Command Chaplain. “The Soldiers were excited to have a place to serve and this is an amazing event. It is inspiring how well they take care of people in need here and we are grateful to be part of this.”

The citizens received packages on their way out containing food products.

This annual Christmas Eve event began in 2003. At that time, the Albertine students organized a meeting, with the help of the 11th High School, for people who used the Caritas diner on a daily basis. The event has been held at Poznań International Fair since 2009.