Tree lighting brightens Edwards holiday season Published Dec. 15, 2010 By Kenji Thuloweit 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On a chilly winter night, Edwards families, workers and residents turned out in force to celebrate this year's holiday tree lighting in front of the Base Exchange, Dec. 7. Col. Gregory E. Schwab, 95th Air Base Wing commander, along with children of deployed service members, pushed the "on" switch to light up the tree. The 95th Force Support Squadron set up the annual event, which featured a fire engine from Edwards Fire Department, music and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus. However, the main attraction of the night was probably the 28 tons of machine-made snow brought in by the 95th FSS for the annual snowball fight. After the tree was lit up, children and parents alike charged toward the snow like a scene from the movie "Braveheart". "I think the turnout is fantastic," said Sandra Davis, Oasis Community Center director. "The children were just waiting to get to the snow. It didn't matter who was before them. They just wanted to play in the snow and that's what it's all about." "This is a very well-known tradition around the base," said Tess Warmka, base resident. "I think the snowball fights are best for the big kids and the tree lighting is the best for the little kids - and the free hot chocolate!" Along with the tree lighting celebration, the annual holiday cards were set up and judged in front of the tree on FitzGerald Blvd. The Girl Scouts from Edwards took first place. The holiday tree and cards will be on display through New Year's Day.