Base rings in holiday with parade

CANNON AIR FORCE BASE — The holiday season is upon us and with it came the annual parade and tree lighting ceremony at Cannon Air Force Base.

U.S. Air Force photo: Senior Airman Jette Carr

Santa and Mrs. Claus applaud as a tree is lit during a ceremony at Cannon Air Force Base. The tree lighting ceremony and holiday parade are annual events taking place each year to kick-off the holiday season.

The parade consisted of several squadron-made floats, as well as a fire truck bearing Santa and Mrs. Claus. It made its way through Joe Cannon Estates base housing and ended at the Landing Zone.

"I think the parade is an excellent event," said Chief Master Sgt. Paul Henderson, 27th Special Operations Wing command chief. "The turnout was wonderful this year."

This was certainly true as adults and children alike lined up and down the streets cheering as the floats went by. The children were especially excited to greet Santa and Mrs. Claus, who stayed long after the parade and tree lighting ceremony in order to speak and take photos with all their admirers.

"This is the base's way of celebrating the holidays," said Master Sgt. Sheronne King, 27th Special Operations Maintenance Group first sergeant. "It's a wonderful experience, for not only our community at Cannon, but for our Air Commandos as well to come out and show support for their squadrons."

After the tree lighting ceremony concluded, everyone was invited inside to enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and the opportunity to get a family portrait taken with jolly old St. Nicholas.