Angel Tree Program

BALTIMORE -- Maryland Air National Guard members can support less fortunate people in the Baltimore area with the Angel Tree program run by the Salvation Army.

At Warfield Air National Guard base Staff Sgt. Ashley Mooney and her husband Tech. Sgt. Brandon Mooney, both from the 175th Logistic Readiness Squadron, have started the program here. "We are the front runners. We have Staff Sgt. Jennifer Wyrick, from finance, as the promoter. The family readiness program helped get it out on Facebook," said Ashley Mooney.

Ashley Mooney got the idea when her husband was away last year. "Brandon did this last year when he was down at McGhee Tyson (Air National Guard Base) for the NCO academy," she said.

The angel cutouts are displayed on a Christmas tree in the dining hall. The angel lists what the child wants, including clothing items with the desired sizes and a toy wish list. Chief Master Sgt. Dale Sanders, sustainment services superintendent, went to the wing commander to get approval for the tree in the dining hall, recognizing that the area would get the most foot traffic.

Members who want to participate are asked to deliver the gifts to the Christmas tree by December 4.

The wing will be helping 35 angels and one or two families this year. The Salvation Army will pick up the items from the base the second week of December and distribute them to the families. Last year the Salvation Army provided toys, clothing and food for over 16,000 men, women and children.

"I want to make this a tradition for every year on this base," said Ashley Mooney.