Gov. Scott Walker and first lady Tonette Walker once again invite family members of Wisconsin service members to send a holiday ornament dedicated to their loved one for this year’s “Tribute to our Troops” holiday tree at the executive residence.
“We keep the brave men and women in uniform in our thoughts and prayers every day, especially during the holiday season,” Walker said. “This is a tough time of the year to be away from loved ones, and we know many of the dedicated members of our Armed Forces might not be able to come home this holiday season to spend time with their families and friends. The ornaments sent by families throughout the state and displayed on the Tribute tree at the Executive Residence are important reminders of our service men and women and serve as an expression of our appreciation for their selfless service.”
The ornaments will be displayed on one of the large evergreen trees in the executive residence during December’s holiday tours. The ornaments can be plain or fancy, as well as personalized to honor our fallen service members, those who are deployed overseas this holiday season, and all who wear the uniforms of our nation’s armed forces.
The governor and first lady encourage as many families as possible of Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guard members to take part in the event.
“Sending in an ornament for this special tree is a small gesture,” Mrs. Walker said. “But many small gestures such as this can result in something truly beautiful.”
To be included as part of this year’s “Tribute to our Troops” tree, ornaments must be received no later than Nov. 21 at:
Wisconsin National Guard Service Member Support Division
ATTN: Master Sgt. Deborah Severson
2400 Wright Street
Madison, Wis., 53704
Ornaments will not be returned.
The “Tribute to our Troops” tree will be decorated Nov. 15, but ornaments received after that date will be added to the tree. The tree can be seen during public tours held from noon-2 p.m. Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15, and from 10 a.m. – noon Dec. 3 and 10.