National Guard Christmas party

Around 120 people attended the recent Christmas party for retirees of the 203rd Engineer Battalion of the Missouri National Guard and other area Armed Forces retirees held by the Family Readiness Group for the Monett and Pierce City National Guard units at the Monett Armory. (Photos by Chris Turben)

The National Guard Christmas party treated active duty National Guard members, their families and retirees. The meal was prepared by James Landoll, Tim Brittain and Chris Turben. Chris Drzynski smoked 10 turkeys for the occasion. (Photos by Chris Turben)

In continuing with recognition for past service, the Christmas party for National Guard retirees and active duty soldiers at the Monett Armory included an empty table in recognition of soldiers who had fallen in service. (Photos by Chris Turben)

First Sergeant Stephen Bradley, at center, served as master of ceremonies for the National Guard Christmas party for retirees of the 203rd Engineer Battalion, local active duty Guard soldiers and their families. (Photos by Chris Turben)

National Guard business was conducted at the Christmas party held for Guard soldiers and retirees at the Monett Armory. Thomas Parker, shown with his wife, Jessica, was promoted from specialist to sergeant. (Photos by Chris Turben)

As a special treat at the National Guard party, Santa Claus arrived, thrilling the children on hand. (Photos by Chris Turben)

The Christmas party for National Guard retirees and active duty soldiers was organized by the Family Readiness Group, with primary work done by Sandy and Kelly Lakin and Joyce Newman. They also arranged for a special visit by Santa Claus to see the families' children. Toys were distributed to all the children. Pictured above, Santa heard Christmas wishes from Ava and Asher Wilson, the children of Staff Sergeant Nathan Wilson and Sandy Lakin's grandchildren. (Photo by Chris Turben)