FORT CAVAZOS, Texas – Fort Cavazos Soldiers and families rang in the holiday season with a ceremony to light the III Armored Corps Christmas Tree Dec. 1 in front of the III Armored Corps headquarters building here.

Lt. Gen. Sean Bernabe, III Armored Corps and Fort Cavazos commander, was joined by two Fort Cavazos youth, Joseph Brooks (8 years old) and Mariah Fletcher (5 years old), to help him flip the candy cane switch to light the tree.

As the horizon darkened, the Christmas tree illuminated those in attendance, signaling the official start of the holiday season at the Great Place.

“Happy Holidays,” Lt. Gen. Sean C. Bernabe, III Armored Corps and Fort Cavazos commanding general said. “It’s great to see everybody.”

The 1st Cavalry Division Legends Brass Band and the Meadows Elementary Choir performed traditional holiday and Christmas music throughout the event.

After the tree was lit, a special guest arrived with the help of the 1st Cavalry Division Horse Detachment’s mule wagon. Santa Claus waved at the families and children as the wagon circled the III Armored Corps flagpole.

Following the tree lighting ceremony, guests gathered inside the III Armored Corps headquarters building to have their photo taken with Santa and enjoy light snacks and beverages.