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MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Christina Thomas, daughter of Master Sgt. Kermit Thomas, 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, sits on Santa’s lap during the Hearts Apart program at the children’s playgroup building Dec. 8. The Hearts Apart program lets children enjoy time with their families and meet Santa during the holidays. (Photo by Airman 1st Class Maria Ruiz)

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MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Troy Beaulieu, son of Tech. Sgt. Lucas Beaulieu, 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, plays hide-and-seek with his mother Tia Beaulieu Dec. 8 at the children’s playgroup building. The Hearts Apart program gives parents an opportunity to enjoy family-oriented activities while loved ones are deployed during the holidays. (Photo by Airman 1st Class Maria Ruiz)

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MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Madison Stephens and Megan Reece, center, lead a group of children in a game and hand out prizes to winners during the Hearts Apart program at the children’s playgroup building Dec. 8. Madison and Megan spend the afternoon playing games with the children, cleaning and serving food to the families. (Photo by Airman 1st Class Maria Ruiz)

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MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Michael and Kay Brooks eat lunch with their grandchildren Haley and Laura, daughters of Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Ramseyer and Staff Sgt. Laura Ramseyer, 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, the family colors together during the Hearts Apart program at the children’s playgroup building Dec. 8. (Photo by Airman 1st Class Maria Ruiz)

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MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Cheyenne, Christina and Tiffany Thomas, daughters of Master Sgt. Kermit Thomas, 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, receive holiday gifts from Santa during the Hearts Apart program at the children’s playgroup building Dec. 8. Eastminsters Presbyterian Church donated gifts to families whose loved ones are deployed during the holiday season. (Photo by Airman 1st Class Maria Ruiz)

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Children share lunch with Santa

Published Dec. 14, 2007
By Staff Sgt. Ronald Lafosse II
22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE, Kan. -- Children of deployed military members received a chance to enjoy playtime, a little lunch, and sit on Santa's lap Dec. 8 at the playgroup building.

"It's something fun to do while mom or dad is away," said Master Sgt. Susan Smith, 22nd Mission Support Group, Airman and Family Readiness Center. "It can help take their mind off missing that special person in their lives for a little while."

Children played games, enjoyed crafts, and sung songs while parents relaxed and chatted with other parents.

"The children had the opportunity to tell Santa what they want for Christmas and they each received a small treat," said Sergeant Smith.

"Before leaving for the day, each child was given a wrapped present with their name on it to take home for Christmas," she said.

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