In a heartwarming start to the festive season, First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance lent their hands to a charitable cause at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.
The two ladies, accompanied by a host of cabinet spouses, participated in a holiday event focused on assembling care packages for U.S. service members.
According to One America News, the event took place on Monday afternoon, coinciding with the unveiling of this year's White House Christmas decorations, themed "Home is Where the Heart Is." The First Lady led the charitable gathering at Joint Base Andrews, a timely holiday initiative that aligns with her ongoing advocacy for military families and children's welfare.
In addition to the holiday event, Monday also marked the launch of the U.S.-based "Season of Service" campaign. This initiative, a partnership with the American Red Cross, aims to honor military families and support deployed service members. The campaign encourages nationwide volunteerism and acts of kindness throughout the festive season, inviting volunteers to assemble and personalize holiday care packages.
"Every package built here today is built with American values. Each represents liberty, love, community, and honor. Each is delivered with heart and love. The foundation of our great nation," Melania Trump declared. She further emphasized the courage of not only the service members but also their spouses, stating, "But we must also illuminate the bravery of those who walk beside them. The spouses, who carry the weight of family life on top of their own dreams."
The First Lady also urged everyone to prioritize their well-being, stating, "As we celebrate this season of hope, I encourage everyone to also take care of yourselves. Your well-being is vital not just for our families, but for your own future."
The White House press release highlighted the event as a testament to the resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of military families. It particularly acknowledged the spouses who bear the unique responsibilities of military life. "Mrs. Trump expressed deep gratitude for their service to the Nation and emphasized the importance of supporting those who spend the holidays separated from loved ones."
Following her speech, the First and Second Ladies, along with other cabinet spouses, joined 50 military spouses in crafting around 700 "comfort kits." These kits, comprised of Rice Krispies treats, peanuts, granola bars, and handwritten notes, were a token of appreciation for the service members.
The ladies also penned holiday cards for those deployed, with Melania Trump writing, "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thank you for your service. Our nation is proud of you! With warm wishes, Melania Trump."
The event, held in a spacious hangar at Joint Base Andrews, was set against the backdrop of sleek F-16 fighters and executive C-37 Gulfstreams. The air was filled with soft Christmas jazz, the scent of jet fuel and evergreens, and the warmth of steaming hot cocoa.
Freshly baked holiday cookies added to the festive atmosphere as participants diligently assembled care packages, embodying the spirit of service and community that forms the bedrock of our great nation.
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