German-American friendships strengthen at Trier Christmas market

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nathanael Callon
  • 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TRIER, Germany --  The crisp winter air was hardly a match for the food, friends and music that was shared at the Trier Christmas Market Dec. 17.

In the season of friendship, gifts and celebration, American and German residents of Trier shared an eventful night together.

The German-American Society of Trier invited members of the 52nd Fighter Wing interested in the organization to come out and enjoy the holiday season in the oldest city in Germany.

Mrs. Betty Dorsey, a former president of the German-American Society, has been a member for 25 years.

"We always try to find people who are interested in joining, but the society is mostly word of mouth," she said.

The German-American Society plans and coordinates meetings, trips and activities that give people a chance to enjoy German and American culture and traditions together.
Spouses and children of deployed servicemembers were invited to take a look at the inner workings of the Trier Christmas market, including vendors baking cookies and making food. The children received free rides on the carousel, tried freshly made cotton candy and met Santa Claus.

"I asked Santa for a horse," said Summer Woods, 5-year-old daughter of Master Sgt. Deshan and Heidi Woods, 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. "I also liked buying stuff and eating a bratwurst."

After the Christmas market tour, the group made its way to the center of the market where live music began and sounds of Christmas cheer began to fill the air.
The brass quintet of the U.S. Air Forces in Europe Band, Five Star Brass, entertained the crowd with Christmas-themed musical arrangements.

"The whole reason behind this event was to show our mutual friendship and appreciation for each other," said Bernhard Schaefer, 52nd FW Community Relations office.

Thomas Vatheuer, public relations manager for the Trier Christmas Market, presented gifts to the USAFE band as well to the American residents who attended the event.