Across the country, the holidays became a bit more joyous for 61 military families who received an unexpected gift when their NEX layaways were paid in full by Pay Away the Layaway, Inc. The layaway balances paid off by the non-profit organization totaled nearly $13,000 and consisted of a variety of children’s toys meant for the holidays.

“Our team at the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) understands the sacrifices military families endure, especially when they’re oceans apart over the holidays,” said retired Rear Adm. Robert J. Bianchi, CEO, NEXCOM. “The kindness and generosity of others is what makes this season so special. We believe in the spirit of the holiday season and giving thanks, but most of all, we believe that heroes walk among us!”

Throughout the week NEX store managers called the families and surprised them with the good news! This Pay Away the Layaway surprise follows an event at NEX San Diego on Dec. 12, where the non-profit partnered with Kendra Wilkinson to surprise 19 military families by paying off their layaways totaling $3,700. This is the third year that NEXCOM has teamed up with the non-profit to provide military families an extra special helping hand over the holiday, just when they need it the most.

“It’s such an honor to be able to serve those who serve us. Seeing the faces of those brave men and women when they know their kids will have a Christmas is priceless. I personally can’t help but tear up,” said Matthew G. Davenport, Vice President of Operations, Pay Away the Layaway, Inc.

The Pay Away the Layaway event this week supported military families stationed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga.; Naval Air Station Oceana, Va.; Naval Base Kitsap, Wash.; and Naval Station Everett, Wash.

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