Team XL celebrates holiday with tree lighting ceremony Published Nov. 26, 2013 By 2nd Lt. William M. Tyrrell 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, TEXAS -- The holiday season is approaching rapidly and what better way to enjoy the season than participating in the annual holiday card contest or Christmas tree lighting ceremony Dec. 3 at the base chapel. "The Christmas tree lighting and the holiday card contest are a great opportunity to provide a visible reminder of this special season," said Chaplain (Maj.) Andrew McIntosh, 47th Flying Training Wing chaplain. The event is free and begins at 5:30 p.m. in front of the chapel. Cookies and hot chocolate will be provided by the chapel to attendees and carolers will sing for the crowds. At the event, the chapel staff will announce the top three holiday card winners. The cards will be judged on their attractiveness, the message the card displays and the creativity in the overall design. Ribbons will be awarded for display on the winning cards. Followed by a greeting from Col. Brian Hastings, 47th FTW commander, and the announcement of the holiday card winners, the base Christmas tree will be lit. Making a special appearance at the tree lighting is Santa Claus, who will be escorted to the front of the chapel by the fire department after the tree lighting ceremony. Santa will then lead everybody into Club XL where a dinner will be provided for a fee. "This is a fun event that we look forward to each year," said McIntosh. "The tree lighting ceremony wouldn't be possible without the hard work and support of so many people on base so I encourage everyone to join in the festivities." For more information, contact the chapel at (830) 298-5111.