What embodies Christmas more than the spirit of giving? On Dec. 13, Sailors of Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center (NAVSUP FLC) Sigonella site team gathered at the Comunita Elios orphanage in the town of Giarre, 45 minutes north of the base, for an annual Christmas celebration.

The festivities included a Christmas dinner, games for children, a surprise visit from Santa, and of course presents!

The mayor of Giarre kicked off the festivities with a welcome speech, where he expressed his appreciation to the service members for hosting the annual community relations (COMREL) event.

Following the speech, the excited children gave the Sailors and other visitors a tour of their home, then the Sailors served the children a meal they had purchased and prepared.

After dinner, Santa (portrayed by Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) 1st Class Luis Sanchez) brought smiles and early Christmas gifts to the children, which were donated by FLC Sigonella Sailors.

"It was wonderful to be a part of this year's celebration ... the look on the children's faces when Santa Claus came in and handed out the presents was priceless," said FLC Sigonella Site Director Lt. Cmdr. Erika "Mo" Schoenthal.

Once all the presents were open, everyone started to dance, sing, and play games.

As the hours waned and the children became tired, FLC Sigonella Sailors bid "arrivederci" as another wonderful COMREL -- one which not only filled the community and children with joy, but also the service members -- came to an end.

NAVSUP Global Logistics Support provides global logistics for a global Navy. The organization is made up of more than 6,300 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide, providing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella, one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP GLS, provides operational logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and other joint and allied forces. Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal and consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.

A component of the Naval Supply Systems Command headquartered in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, NAVSUP GLS is part of a worldwide logistics network of more than 22,500 military and civilian personnel providing combat capability through logistics.

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For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/.