Bringing Christmas Cheer to Military Families
Every December, the air fills with laughter and holiday spirit at Fort Bragg as it becomes a site for heartfelt festivities. The first Friday of the month brings families together with the sweet sound of Christmas carols, sang amidst the chill of winter. At the Smith Lake Recreation Area, volunteers dressed in festive attire help deliver Christmas trees to military families as a part of the Trees for Troops initiative, which has been delivering joy since 2005. The enduring love of one man, Sam Cartner, has contributed tremendously to this tradition.
Sam Cartner: A Legacy of Giving
Sam Cartner, now deceased, founded Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm in Avery County back in 1959. A veteran himself, he understood the sacrifices made by the armed forces. Someone who lived through the harsh realities of war, Sam promoted the spirit of Christmas as a time for joy and peace. “He believed that if decision-makers had to face the battlefield, wars would be fewer,” his son Jim recalls.
That belief translated into action when the National Christmas Tree Association contacted him for help in setting up the first Trees for Troops event. The farm has since contributed Fraser firs to military bases across the United States, showing appreciation for the troops who serve our nation.
A Community Effort
North Carolina is not just a participant in this program; it's one of the top contributors. In 2022 alone, the state delivered more than 1,000 trees to Fort Bragg and other military installations, thanks to the combined efforts of Sam’s family and community volunteers. “We see a lot of grateful faces and smiles,” says James Day, Fort Bragg’s chief of outdoor recreation.
But beyond the joyful moments shared, the program also showcases the significance of community. High school volunteers and local businesses frequently donate snacks, labor, and meals to keep spirits high. Children engage through art by designing tags for the trees, bringing their own touch of creative spirit to the effort.
More than Just Trees
The Trees for Troops initiative is backed by not just Sam's farm but also grows from community support across the state. Each year, as trees are distributed, the memories of laughter, love, and appreciation are planted in families’ hearts, even when they’re apart due to service commitments. The purpose is clear: provide families with the ability to celebrate the joy of Christmas, despite the challenges faced through military service.
Conclusion: Join the Spirit of Giving
This holiday season, consider how you might contribute to such wonderful causes like Trees for Troops. Whether through donations or volunteering, there are plenty of opportunities to help spread the spirit of Christmas. By engaging with local programs like Cartner’s Christmas Tree Farm, you not only support the community but also ensure that our military families get to experience the warmth and joy that the holiday season can bring.
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