The season's festivities were in full swing as Army Sgt. 1st Class Robert Suarez (right) brought his children to meet Santa at Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation's Winter Wonderland Fest in the 3 Star Recreation Center in Brussels, Dec. 6, 2018. (U.S. Army photo by Cyndi Juarez)
A little bit of home for the holidays
BRUSSELS -- The Benelux community had a rockin' good time during Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation's Winter Wonderland Fest in the 3 Star Recreation Center on Brussels Dec. 6. The event featured an appearance by the most sought after celebrity at this time of year, Santa Claus.
Marine Col. Maria McMillen said that she brought her children to the festively-decorated 3 Star to meet Santa. They were not disappointed. Santa had a sweet treat for every child that spent time telling him their holiday wishes.
Army Spc. Jon Dusenbury, a military policeman, was recruited to serve as Santa's special assistant for the evening and said that it was much more fun than he expected.
In addition, Child and Youth Services brought special holiday-themed arts and craft supplies and provided creative, fun activities for all ages.
The event also offered live, crowd-pleasing music. Armed Forces Entertainment's Dueling Pianos made a stop at the garrison on their whirlwind European tour covering 13 bases in 17 days.
The musicians Neal Kern and Chris Combs displayed incredible talent as they performed top hits, Christmas favorites and even took requests from the audience all evening. They had the crowd on their feet clapping with the beat and enjoying the lively show. After their performance, in a nod to the excellent staff and food service at the 3 Star Recreation Center, the musicians boldly proclaimed the dinner fare the best they sampled on the tour.
A COMMUNITY EFFORT
The good time felt spontaneous and effortless to attendees. However, like any good event, it took a lot of behind the scenes preparation and planning.
Dave Coldwell, Family and MWR business and recreation chief in Brussels, said these events aim to bring a little bit of America to the community so they feel back at home. His favorite part of the evening was making extra effort to make sure parents were involved, because it was an event for the whole family.
Coldwell added that Brussels is a community where it feels more like a family that comes together. Garrison staff from Directorate of Public Works assisted with electrical and lighting. Military police supported with drivers and by helping Santa. He further stated that events like this are successful because of the help and participation by volunteers, Family and MWR staff, children and their parents.
To find out more about volunteering with MWR, please contact Dave Coldwell at DSN 314-368-9753 or +32(0)2-717-9753.
OTHER EVENTS IN THE BENELUX
The Benelux communities celebrated the holiday season with a tree lighting event in Schinnen on Dec. 7 and Chièvres on Dec. 12. The Dueling Pianos provided entertainment during the Schinnen event while the Chièvres crowd enjoyed music by the SHAPE International Band and carols sung by children from Child and Youth Services.
For more information about upcoming community events in the Benelux, visit the Benelux Family and MWR website.
Story by Cyndi Juarez, USAG Benelux Public Affairs