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Springfield ANG delivers for Springfield

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Joseph Stahl
  • 178th FIghter Wing
The 178th Fighter Wing's Airman/NCO and Company Grade Officers Councils teamed up to deliver gifts for Operation Smile at the Children's Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio, Dec. 12.

Operation Smile's goal was to bring gifts and well wishes to hospitalized children and their families during the holiday season.

The CGOC purchased the gifts and ten Springfield Air National Guard members delivered more than 70 gift bags to children at the hospital.

"I was privileged enough to be a part of such an amazing experience this year." said Tech Sgt. Elisabeth Gelhar. "The joy and gratitude found on each child's face not only because we handed them a gift bag filled with goodies but because we cared enough come visit them was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in the Air National Guard."

This was the second consecutive year of this program.

"Operation Smiles helped many of us remember that life is a gift, and it offered us the privilege, opportunity, and experience of something much greater than words," said 2nd Lt. Matt Kemper, 178th CGOC president. "Sometimes the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others and being able to find the reward in other's happiness."