Press Releases

Congressman Roscoe Bartlett Helps Operation Christmas Tree Deliver 5,000 Trees to Troops

Washington, Dec 1, 2007 -

On Saturday, December 1 Congressman Roscoe Bartlett joined 350 volunteers for Operation Christmas Tree and the Armed Forces Foundation in Westminster, Maryland and helped pack 5,000 decorated live two-foot tall Christmas trees that will be shipped to troops deployed overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"I recall last year, when Jim asked for my help so he could ship 75 Christmas trees to his daughter and other American soldiers in Iraq," said Congressman Bartlett. "That initial incredible effort to bring a symbol of home and hope to Americans sacrificing so much for us has grown so much in one short year. It's a testament to Jim's and the Armed Forces Foundation dedication and caring and support for our fellow Americans who have volunteered to serve in our Armed Forces. I hope and pray that the peace and compassion and God's love made manifest in the birth of Jesus Christ during our celebrations of Christmas will unite all of these families and friends who are separated by the service of a loved one. May they all come home safe. May we never forget the debt we owe them and always honor their dedication to duty."

Jim Ward, Vice President & Co-Founder of Operation Christmas Tree began the charity last year as a way to help bring a “bit of home” to his daughter when she was stationed in Iraq. His daughter, USA Specialist Luisa Gonzales, is now back in the states and was in hand with other volunteers at the tree packing.