Residents sought to sponsor airmen

Cannon Connections staff

Local organizations are asking residents to invite a guest to Christmas Day dinner from Cannon Air Force Base.

Ernie Kos, executive director of the Clovis/Curry County Chamber of Commerce, said the response was overwhelming after the “Invite an Airman to Christmas Day Dinner” project was announced Friday afternoon.

“It was surprising how many single airmen were here on their own last Christmas and, for many of them, it was their first time to be away from home for the holidays,” Kos said in a release from the chamber. “If you have an extra place or two at your table, please consider inviting an airman through the chamber.”

She said about 24 or 25 families had already called to offer a place at their table, Kos said. A majority had multiple spots open, and one family said it could host eight extra for their holiday feast.

The chamber will accept volunteers through Dec. 21, and can be reached at 763-3435 or at [email protected].