JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD -- Missions and operations of all sorts are important, and Operation Turkey Drop is no different.
In the spirit of giving, the Air Force Association (AFA) McChord Field Chapter donated 60 of turkeys Nov. 4, to 446th Airlift Wing Reservists and their families this year.
Rich Wendt, president of the AFA McChord Field Chapter, said, “This tradition is one we have been doing for a while and this year, a variety of community partners came together to help us fund this year’s turkey drop.”
Operation Turkey Drop has become an annual tradition within the 446th Airlift Wing. This year will be the 17th year that AFA have helped Citizen Airmen of the 446th Airlift Wing and their families during the holiday season.
“This is a great way to kick off the holiday season each year with the 446th Airlift Wing,” said Mark Minickiello, first vice president of the AFA McChord Field Chapter.
On Nov. 4, leaders from 446 FSS and 446 AW met with AFA to help move the turkeys into cold storage before distribution.
“AFA always helps us take care of our Airmen, and we are so grateful for their support and dedication to our wing,” said Chief Master Sgt. Kylee Engel, 446th Airlift Wing command chief.
Sixty turkeys will be distributed to anyone that might need a little extra help. The turkey boxes will be ready for pick up by first sergeants for pre-arranged distribution on Sunday afternoon.
Jill Pyclik, director of Military and Family Readiness for the 446th Airlift Wing, said, “These turkeys will go to our members during this holiday season to express the appreciation of their service to our country.”
Operation Turkey Drop, and events like it, are AFA’s efforts to strengthen local ties in the community and show appreciation for the military community within it.
“It is our pleasure to receive this generous gift from our community leaders again this year,” said Pyclik.