Operation Warmheart seeks to provide Thanksgiving assistance

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jose L. Hernandez
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  All across the country, families gather together to take part in the heartwarming tradition of feasting on exquisite turkey dishes and more during the Thanksgiving holiday.

This year the first sergeants at Minot Air Force Base are continuing the tradition of helping Airmen in need this holiday season. They will be hosting a charitable event at the base commissary to provide select Airmen with turkeys and other goods for the coming festivities.

The event, called Operation Warmheart, is an ongoing initiative which assists Airmen and their families in times of need. The thanksgiving food drive has continually succeeded in bringing smiles and cheers to Team Minot Airmen.

In order to help ensure the success of Operation Warmheart, the first sergeants council began a food drive Nov. 2, requesting Turkey donations (at least 10-12 lbs) and other goods from those who have the ability to provide this holiday season.

The council is hoping to provide Airmen with thanksgiving items to include stuffing, boxed desserts, turkey gravy, canned vegetables, and more for their enjoyment during the holiday.

For those who would like donate to the cause, the collection point for turkeys is located at the 5th Medical Group, while non-perishable goods are being collected at the education center and the base commissary. First sergeants are accepting goods at their respective office as well.

Master Sgt. Christopher Owen, 5th Civil Engineer Squadron first sergeant, explained the goal of the program is to provide meals to Team Minot Airmen who cannot afford to do so on their own.

"It helps by providing them with everything they need to have a great Thanksgiving celebration," Owen said.

The program proved to be quite a success last year as the first sergeants helped hand out hundreds of thanksgiving goods to a number of Airmen on base. The event was quite a memorable one following unforeseen circumstances and financial burdens many Airmen endured due to the historic Souris River Flood.

It was also quite notable time because of the gratitude expressed by Airmen, many who had seen their homes and valuables almost completely submerged underwater. The flood caused so many financial burdens that even to this day there are Airmen who are still recovering from the devastating disaster.

For those who would prefer to simply make a cash donation, feel free to drop it off with a respective first sergeant as they will be gathering funds to make a bulk purchase. Donations are preferred before Nov. 14.

For any further questions on the thanksgiving drive, contact a respective first sergeant.