For the love of trees

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Laura L. Valentine
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  With small hands and loads of dirt, McConnell's youth helped to celebrate Arbor Day by planting three trees at the school age program center.

Arbor Day was nationally recognized April 27, 2012. Founded in 1872, Arbor Day is celebrated across the country with ceremonies promoting education and action about healthy environments.

"Tree knowledge is important because it promotes awareness of the natural world," said Tina Seemayer, 22nd Civil Engineer Squadron environmental engineer.

Approximately 15 children from the school age program helped to complete the planting process of three trees during the official Arbor Day ceremony. Troop members from Girl Scout Troop 40710 were also there to lend a hand.

In recognition of Earth Day, April 22, and Arbor Day, the troop participated in the tree planting as part of their "Forever Green" project, which also includes encouraging people to use less plastic, said Amanda Chastain, troop leader. Troop 40710 is the local organization which supports McConnell's Girl Scouts.

McConnell has been part of the Tree City USA program for the past 18 years, where the base's environmental efforts have earned recognition with receiving the title of Tree City USA.

"Planting trees and beautifying the area shows that McConnell is committed to having a healthy and green environment for Airmen and their families," said Seemayer.

Many varieties of trees are planted throughout the year across base, including conifers and seasonal deciduous species. These additions to the landscape help to provide erosion protection, shade, pollution prevention, natural habitats and much more.

While helping the community, planting the trees was fun and taught us something at the same time, said troop members.

With the closing lines of the official proclamation read by Col. Mark Evans, 22nd Mission Support Group commander, the children closed in and scooped out handfuls of mulch, officially welcoming the new additions to Team McConnell.

"Further, I urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the hearts and promote the well being of present and future generations," said Evans.