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Shaw recognizes a special way to celebrate Arbor Day

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ashley L. Gardner
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  On April 19, Shaw planted a Savannah holly tree, which is a native tree to South Carolina to celebrate Arbor Day.

Arbor Day is a national holiday that was founded by Julius Sterling Morton, a pioneer. Celebrated on the last Friday in April, Arbor Day is observed to recognize the importance of trees in communities. With the first Arbor Day celebration being established in 1872 in Nebraska City, Neb., his idea of planting trees to improve the environment caught on, and Arbor Day is now celebrated in all 50 states.

"Planting a tree on Arbor Day symbolizes our commitment to maintaining healthy trees in our surroundings," said Henry Morris, 20th Civil Engineer forester. "Upcoming new construction on Shaw Air Force Base will provide both challenges and opportunities to improve our urban forest resource. One of the major objectives of our Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan for nearby Poinsett Electronic Combat Range is restoration of the longleaf pine ecosystem."

The Arbor Day ceremony was incorporated with Earth Day. Educational displays such as posters, videos and handouts illustrating environmental activities on Shaw AFB and Poinsett Range were posted in the food court at the base exchange.

"We are proud to participate in this celebration for the quality of our environment and the educational opportunity provided to our community," said Lt. Col. Terrence Walter, 20th CES commander.