425th ABS, NATO members bring smiles to kids at a children's hospital

  • Published
  • By Tanju Varlikli
  • 425th Air Base Squadron Host Nation Advisor
IZMIR, Turkey --  Servicemembers from the 425th Air Base Squadron and NATO, along with local national volunteers from the Izmir civilian community, reached out to an Izmir, Turkey children's hospital Dec. 23.

The volunteers handed out toys and books to more than 180 children who were being treated in the different wards of the hospital that included oncology, surgery, infectious diseases and cardiovascular surgery units.

"This outreach was a great chance for all of us to bring the holiday cheer to those who are most eager to embrace it," said Capt. Keith Cronican, 425th Air Base Squadron director of operations. "Community events like this build strong, ongoing relationships within the local community. A lot of people volunteered their time to get this important outreach program done, and the support received from Izmir community members has been overwhelming."

The community prepared for more than a month for the outreach collecting more than 300 gift items that were delivered along with the donations made by the 425th Air Base Squadron and NATO service members.

"It is a wonderful thing to witness two cultures come together for a common goal. Bringing cheer and goodwill to children under a canopy of love and compassion truly encompasses the spirit of the season," said Chaplain (Capt.) Eusebia Rios, 425th Air Base Squadron installation chaplain. "Our outreach is more than trying to meet a need, it is about building bridges of friendship, strengthening relationships with our community and investing in our future together. A toy, a huge smile and lots of love can make a big difference in the smallest of hearts."

The volunteers helped the children unwrap and assemble their gifts after Santa Claus greeted and surprised all the children with his appearance.

"I got to be one of Santa's elves and passed out gifts to the sick at the children's hospital," said Tech. Sgt. Staci Ocasio, 425th ABS medical aid station independent duty medical aid technician-paramedic. "The atmosphere changed from patients in a quiet hospital to kids asking questions and playing ... they overcame a language barrier with their heartwarming smiles. I saw first-hand that it's not the gift that means the most; it truly is the thought behind it. This is what Christmas is all about."

The holiday effort was spearheaded by Senior Airman Joshua Davies, 425th ABS Security Forces base defense operations control center controller, and Tech. Sgt. Siam Bean, 425th ABS Command Section commander's administrator. Bean explained that the outreach was very well-received and appreciated by family members. The kids as well as their families were excited and asking for photographs with Santa and Izmir community members.

Many in attendance said they were moved by the importance of the outreach program to be able to show the kids some caring love from the Izmir military and civilian community, and grateful to be part of such a rewarding experience.