JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md –
Team Andrews brightened with holiday cheer as the 88-foot tall Capitol Christmas Tree arrived here Nov. 20.
The 88 year-old, white spruce traveled more than 2,000 miles from the Chippewa National Forest in Minnesota, and was featured in more than 30 community celebrations along the way.
It made its final stop at Joint Base Andrews before being decorated and put up for display at the U.S. Capitol Building's west lawn.
"JBA is the only location where they uncase the tree before it arrives at the Capitol," 1st Lt. Tommy Le, 11th Civil Engineer Squadron simplified acquisitions of base requirements chief said. "It's a great honor to bring [the tree] to our military families so they can enjoy this holiday event."
More than 100 Team Andrews members volunteered to assist the U.S. Forrest Service Team in its arrival.
"It's been a great event," 2nd Lt. Charles MacDonald 11th Civil Engineer Squadron chief programs development said. "Seeing all the kids and families come out has definitely put me in the holiday spirit."
After it arrives at the capitol, the tree will be decorated with thousands of ornaments, handcrafted by children and others from Minnesota communities as a gift from the "Land of 10,000 Lakes."
Speaker of the House John A. Boehner will light The Capitol Christmas Tree during a ceremony on Dec. 2 on the U.S. Capitol's west lawn at 5 p.m.
The Capitol Christmas Tree has been a tradition at the U.S. Capitol since 1964.