A small rural town in the Midwest gathers to light the Christmas tree, sing carols and honor a soldier fighting in a war far from home.
Norman Rockwell couldn’t have painted a more perfect Christmas scene than what took place in the Village of Leonard Saturday night.
Everyone gathered in front of the old fire station on E. Elmwood St. for the annual lighting of the town’s Christmas tree.
This year the honor of flipping the switch went to Rev. Carol Walborn, pastor of Leonard United Methodist Church since April 2006.
Following the lighting, former Leonard resident and 1978 Oxford High graduate Michael Moran placed two ornaments on the tree for his daughter PFC. Jessica Moran.
For the about 14 weeks Jessica has been serving in Iraq with the U.S. Army’s 3rd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, 187th Infantry Regiment, also known as ‘Rakkasans.?
‘She’s the only female in her unit,? Moran said.
A 2006 graduate of Madison High School, Jessica’s Military Occupational Specialty is truck driver.
‘I just hope she has a good Christmas and comes home safe,? Moran said.
Although he now lives in Madison Heights, Moran grew up in Leonard and his father, John, still lives there.
Following the ceremony, everyone went inside Rowland Hall to sing Christmas carols, listen to a story and enjoy hot beverages and sweet treats.