'Makes us feel at home': Operation Holiday Celebration brings military families together for the holidays

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The holiday season is all about giving back and on Saturday, Dec. 7, local servicemen and women received a special gift for themselves and their families at the Milwaukee War Memorial Center.

There were hundreds of smiling faces, as more than 200 Wisconsin military service members and their families enjoyed a night encapsulating the holiday spirit.

"Whether we are here or away, it kind of just makes us feel at home," said Emerald Lorenze, who serves in the Army National Guard.

Lorenze who's served nine years in the Army National Guard says Operation Holiday Celebration has become a tradition for her and her daughter.

"We get to see Santa and spend time as a family together, because we don’t get to do that often, you know throughout the year," said Lorenze.

The annual event prevent brings the Christmas spirit to life with games, music, good eats and of course, Santa.

"By bringing a Christmas tree, some presents, hot chocolate, it’s a reminder that their families are thinking of them, our community is thinking of them, but it's also a reconnection," said Josh Sova, executive director of USO Wisconsin. "A lot of the military that are here tonight have been away from their families deployed, training and this is a way for them to reconnect."

While the event provides a winter wonderland of fun, those who serve and their families say they best part is getting to spend time with their loved ones.

"It's that time for us to connect and be here together and celebrate," said Lt. Col. Matthew Mangerson who serves in the Wisconsin Army National Guard.

Mangerson says it reminds him what's important, saying he does it all for his daughter.

"We know we give up our time and a lot of sacrifice for the army, but it makes her appreciate all that time and sacrifice, so that’s really who we do it for is for Esther."