NEW CUMBERLAND, Pennsylvania –
Defense Distribution Center, Susquehanna, hosted its 50th annual Children’s Holiday Party on Dec. 7, during which local children played games, received gifts and visited with Santa. The party, held yearly at the installation’s Susquehanna Club, featured a live DJ, face painting, pizza and presentations by DLA fire and police units.
The party began with civilian and military volunteers greeting the approximately 100 children, around ages six to eight, bused in from five surrounding school districts.
Once inside the venue’s ballrooms, guests were welcomed by DLA Distribution Susquehanna, Pa., Army Col. Corey New, followed by the North Pole’s most famous couple, Santa and Mrs. Clause, who invited the kids to pose for photos and share their holiday wishes.
The remainder of the morning was comprised of dancing, face painting, and entertainment from Willy-Bill the Clown. During the merriment, Office McGruff and Sparky the Fire Dog provided fire safety tips and the children had the opportunity to personalize a holiday card for a military member or veteran.
Following a pizza lunch, the children listened alongside DLA Distribution commander Army Brig. Gen. Richard Dix as his wife, Cynthia Dix, captivated the audience with a reading of “The Night Before Christmas.”
As the party wound down, the children were presented with gifts including a new coat and sleeping bag. Just before being escorted back to their buses, the children received hugs from Santa and Mrs. Claus, who provided their warmest wishes for a happy holiday and wonderful New Year.