Kirtland Air Force Base -- The Space Development and Test Wing hosted a crowd of miniature fairies, witches, ghosts, action heroes and even a monster or two for an early trick or treat celebration Oct. 29 with the local Kirtland Elementary School.
Over 120 children accompanied by teachers and parents raided the SDTW compound to experience some light-hearted tricks and tasty treats. They made their way through a labyrinthine of haunted halls and met a number of costumed comrades to find their way out with hefty bags of goodies.
Many SDTW personnel helped out by decorating their areas in Halloween style and even creating a haunted house for the kids to wander through. The SDTW senior staff, including the Commander Col. Michael Moran, greeted the children and handed out trick or treat bags. Some of the children roaming the hallowed halls were even heard saying to the Scarecrow (Col Moran) - "Thanks Boss!"
Special recognition goes to Cheryl Wilborn, Master Sgt. Joseph Collins, and Michelle Brown for organizing the event with Alene Hardin of Kirtland Elementary. The 377th Security Forces Squadron also played a crucial role as Staff Sgt. Austin Hardin, Senior Airman Jennifer Bable, and Airman 1st Class Adrianne Archuleta helped to make arrangements to authorize access for the teachers and students and ensured safe travel between the school and SDTW.
"This is always a wonderful event for our students and our staff," said Peter Espinosa, principal for Kirtland Elementary. "Both students and teachers look forward every year to dressing up in costumes and going over to the SDTW. We can't say enough about the great things the SDTW does for us and for our community every year. We truly appreciate the support and the partnership we have had over the years."