Phoenix Saunders, an 8-month-old, checks out Santa at a Christmas party for Alabama National Guardsmen deployed with the 152nd MP Company.

Families of Alabama National Guardsmen who are deployed to Qatar with the 152nd MP Company were treated to a Christmas party at Falkville VFW Post #10774 Saturday afternoon.

The event, co-sponsored by Falkville and Scottsboro VFW posts, provided a Christmas dinner for 123 guests as well as a visit from Santa and gifts for the children.

The meal consisted of smoked turkey, baked ham and side dishes and desserts prepared by 24 members of the post’s auxiliary.

“Both VFW posts have done an amazing thing, said Jennie Grant, Family Readiness Group chairperson for the 152nd MP Company. “It means more than words can say. Our soldiers are aware of what‘s happening today and they’re relieved to know that we’re being take care of. This is especially a big day for our children.”

“This is also a great opportunity for us to teach our children about our veterans and the sacrifices they have made for their country,” she pointed out. “This is an example of how they continue to serve their communities.

“We know the sacrifices dependents have to make while their sons and daughters and husbands and wives are deployed serving their country, said Val Oregano, Alabama State VFW Commander. “It’s an honor and a privilege for us to be able to help them. This is just a token of our appreciation for their service and sacrifice.

“This was a big undertaking for us but it is more than worth the effort,” said Post #10774 Commander Don Collum. Bobby Train, our junior vice commander, headed up the project from our side, Wayne Jones did a great job preparing the turkey and ham and our auxiliary took charge of cooking the side dishes and baking the desserts.”