The 27th Annual Commanding Officer’s tree lighting ceremony took place aboard Laurel Bay Dec. 3. The event was open to Marines, sailors and their families to celebrate the holiday season.

 “The tradition has been around for 27 years, and it brings the residents of the Laurel Bay community out in full force and puts them into a festive mood,” said Sgt. Maj. Kecia Jordan, the sergeant major of Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

 The event began with a welcoming message from Col. Peter D. Buck, the commanding officer of the air station, and was followed by entertainment provided by the students of the Bolden Elementary choir and cheer team.

 Families sang along with the Bolden Elementary choir to traditional Christmas music while awaiting the arrival of Santa Clause.

 “We have a special guest of honor tonight,” said Buck to the crowd. “But the real guests of honor tonight are the all the little ones you see running around.”

 The MCAS Fire-rescue truck arrived with Santa and Mrs. Clause, who were greeted with the song ‘Here comes Santa Clause,’ and cheering from the crowd.

 “I love driving by and seeing the lights on the tree. I have done this for three years and I think this is the most people I have seen attend. It gets better every year,” said Jordan.   The tree is lit up every night on Laurel Bay, and is located in front of the Marine Corps Exchange.

 “From the Buck family to you, have a safe and Happy Holiday,” said Buck.