Winter 2012 | Volume 110 | Number 662
Meet A Member
Photo Credit: Clark Martin
Celebrating Those Who Serve
A couple organizes an annual party for the military and their families.
by Donna Mulder
Their Story
When Mike and Lori Schmitt walked into their local armory in 2006 to attend the annual Christmas party for the 190th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion Unit of the National Guard in Billings, Montana, they were unaware of what to expect.
"We felt the Christmas celebration could use some support, and we hoped we could be of service to the unit and the families," says Lori.
So Lori and Mike, who had donated $500 for children's books to be given as gifts, decided to get involved. The next year, Lori helped the Guard's Family Readiness Group plan the event, which included a catered meal, decorations, gifts, live entertainment and Santa. The Schmitts covered the costs.
The event has continued to grow. Today, families are greeted with an atmosphere of holiday spirit at the Holiday Inn Trade Center. "The event includes a formal Christmas meal, crafts, a variety of children's activities and live entertainment," says Lori. "For the past few years, family photos have been taken by a professional photographer. And Santa stops by, delivering gifts to the 250 people who attend."
The couple hosts the party for no other reason than to say thanks and provide a day of peace and joy to the military. "We want to appreciate what these soldiers and their families have done for this country and our community," says Lori.
"It's to celebrate these men and women who are doing something that I am just stunned by," adds Mike. "They are putting on a uniform and are going to Afghanistan, Iraq and other places to defend what we're doing here. Their families are dealing with the stresses at home. That's bravery at its best."
Photo Credit: Clark Martin
Questions for Mike and Lori
1. How do you like to spend a Sunday?
"We read the paper and then get ready to go to church. We have lunch together as a family, and then we usually just hang out. During football season, we watch football, mainly the Lions, Patriots and Seahawks," says Lori.
2. What's your favorite book?
Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters. It's an inspiring book on the connection of a father and his daughter," says Lori. "It taught me a lot," remarks Mike, who also adds the Bible to the list of the family's favorite books. "We can't read it enough."
3. What's your favorite Bible verse?
For Lori, it's Philippians
4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." For Mike, it's Psalm 6, which he can recite from memory. He adds: "I have to start each day connecting with God, because I know I'm going to be an idiot the rest of the day."
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