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Earth Day celebration

  • Published
  • By TSgt Kevin Williams
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Earth Day, celebrated throughout the world for almost 40 years, is also celebrated here every year and marked with numerous events to get everyone involved and bring attention to what Earth Day is about. 

Although cleaning the environment can be done any day of the year, opportunities exist for Shaw members scheduled in connection with Earth Day. 

The Base Exchange is hosting an Earth Day outreach program April 22 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. where information on a wide variety of environmental programs is available along with covering different programs on and off base. Anyone wishing to recycle unwanted electronic devices, such as computers, VCRs and TVs, can bring those items to the BX for proper disposal. 

Another big event is the Arbor Day observance. As "Tree City USA," Shaw hosts a tree planting ceremony presided over by the 20th Mission Support Group April 22 at 11 a.m. between the post office and Nelson Ave.
 
As part of the Palmetto Pride Litter Blitz, a big project is scheduled for May 31 for the 4th Annual Manchester State Forest Cleanup, said Mr. Mark Hall, 20th Civil Engineer Squadron Environmental Flight. "You'd be amazed at how much trash people dump in the forest." 

Besides helping clean up the forest, units can earn money for participating in the effort. The unit with most participants is awarded $300; the unit with the 2nd most participants wins $200 and $100 is awarded to the unit with the 3rd most participants. 

Beginning in 1970, Earth Day is the largest secular holiday in the world and is celebrated by more than 500 million people every year, according to Earth Day Network. 

Founded by former Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson, Earth Day was proposed "to shake up the political establishment and force this issue onto the national agenda." 

For his role as Earth Day founder, Sen. Nelson was awarded a Presidential Medal of Freedom; the highest honor bestowed upon a U.S. civilian. 

It is good to schedule cleanups and activities like this around the same time as Earth Day, said Mr. Hall. That's when most people are thinking about the environment and want to help but don't know how. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved. 

Those wanting to participate may contact the Clemson extension office at 773-5561 or Mr. Hall at the 20th CES Environmental Flight at 895-9998.