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Published Thursday, December 08, 2011 in Local

Photo by Alex McRae

Nicholas Justice has his turn talking with Santa Claus during a special visit to the Jackson-Pless National Guard Armory Saturday for the holiday gathering.

Bravo Company soldiers give back to their community

By Alex McRae

The Newnan Times-Herald

Soldiers of Newnan-based Bravo Company of the 2nd Battalion, 121st Regiment of the Georgia National Guard's 48th Infantry, celebrated the Christmas season by performing community service projects and hosting a Christmas dinner for soldiers' families.

The family gathering Saturday at the Jackson-Pless National Guard Armory included a visit from Santa Claus to greet youngsters attending.

Company Commander Captain Nicholas Jones said the annual event was focused on the troops' families and the community where Bravo Company is based.

"It's definitely a family event," Jones said. "We couldn't do what we do without their support and this is a good way for all of us to tell our family members how much we appreciate what they do and to get to know each other better. It's especially fun for the kids and we have a lot of activities here for them to enjoy."

Those activities included pedal cars in the parking lot of the Jackson-Pless Armory, and static displays inside the armory that included some of the weapons used by Bravo Company.

Jones said the community service events performed by Bravo Company during the day were also a big part of the annual event.

"This community has always been great in its support of Bravo Company," he said. "We are honored to be able to give back to the people who have supported us by performing some community service projects we believe help a lot of people, especially at this time of year.

Community service events performed Saturday by members of Bravo Company included exterior landscaping and grounds maintenance at Unity Baptist Church, sorting and moving items in the warehouse operated by One Roof on Temple Avenue in Newnan and donating gifts to the young girls currently staying at the Angel's House children's shelter. Soldiers also put up outdoor decorations at Angel's House.

Soldiers said they enjoyed the fellowship and watching their families enjoy themselves in a relaxed atmosphere.

"This is an event that everyone really enjoys," said Staff Sgt. Michael Deeds. "It's a good way for all of us to come together and let all the family members get together to see who we all are and what we do."

As part of the day's activities, children of Bravo Company soldiers colored pictures that will be laminated and used as place mats in local nursing homes.

Food for the family meal was donated by local businesses and prepared by Bravo Company's Family Readiness Group, which works year-round to support the troops at home and when they are stationed abroad.

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