KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The holiday spirit was in full swing at Kirtland Air Force Base as the Angel Tree, hosted at the Base Exchange, exceeded expectations this season. There were 125 tags hung on the Angel Tree to support families across 22 units and mission partners within Team Kirtland.
“It is always so enlightening to watch people pick a tag from the tree and bring back the gifts with smiles spread across their faces,” said Master Sgt. Cassee Cordes, 377th Maintenance Group first sergeant. “Every tag has been taken, and the tree is officially empty!”
Angel Tree organizers invited individuals to select tags from the tree and purchase gifts for children in need. Within one day of the tree being set up, organizers had to request additional tags due to the overwhelming donations. By the final week, donation bins were overflowing with toys, clothing, and other heartfelt contributions, and not a single tag was left. This event has been a testament to the generosity and compassion of our Kirtland community.
Volunteers were critical to the program’s success, with members of Team Kirtland and the First Sergeants Council — including airmen, civilians, and their families — spending hours organizing and distributing gifts to ensure timely delivery to families in need.
For many, the Angel Tree represents more than gift-giving; it embodies the values of service and community.
As gifts are delivered to families in the coming days, the success of this year’s Angel Tree serves as a reminder of the strength and unity within the community and how together, Team Kirtland has made the season brighter for many.