The leaves are now turning stunning shades of orange and red before they fall to the ground. The next few weeks will undoubtedly fly by, as they always seem to do this time of the year. The winter will creep up and hints of snow and frost will be in the air. Families come together to celebrate the joy of the season with thoughts of what New Year's resolutions to make. For Wounded Warrior families, the holidays will be different this year or maybe they have been different for a while. A hint of sadness will always remain for Gold Star Families. For the last several years, Operation Ward 57 has strived to help spread holiday cheer for these families.

The mission of Operation Ward 57 is to help Wounded Warrior and Gold Star Families in need by getting Christmas or Hanukkah gifts for their children as well with the cost of a holiday dinner. Operation Ward 57 relies on sponsor families, business, organizations, or even individuals to sign up for the opportunity to adopt a Wounded Warrior or Gold Star Family. Upon registration, sponsors will be matched with a wounded, ill, or injured Warrior or a Gold Star Family.

After sponsors register for Operation Ward 57, they will be matched with a family as soon as possible. During the registration process, sponsors will be able to request the family size they wish to adopt. Operation Ward 57 appreciates all sponsors who are willing to register for this holiday event but also stress that there are specific financial requirements to do so. Sponsors are asked to provide a minimum of a $50-$100 food gift card to put towards a holiday meal. Sponsors are encouraged to contact their adopted families to inquire about the grocery stores located near them. Sponsor families are also expected to purchase at least one gift for each child in the adopted families in the amount of $20-$50. Families can always purchase additional gifts or gifts for parents, but at least one gift is required for each child.

Contact with your adopted family is acceptable in regards to asking questions about their wish list or gift suggestions. It is important to remember that a continued friendship outside Operation Ward 57 is not required and asking your adopted families personal questions, no matter how innocent, may trigger PTSD.

Gold Star and Wounded Warrior Families are encouraged to register at Operation Ward 57 and have sponsor families adopt them for the holidays. The application process officially opened for this season in November. The program is open to 100 families and must meet specific requirements.

Operation Ward 57 is a nonprofit organization that was founded by wounded servicemembers and veterans as well as those who simply wanted to give back to our military. This event is an extra special way to let our Wounded Warrior and Gold Star Families know that they are not forgotten this holiday season.

For additional details and list of requirements, please visit www.operationward57.org.