HANSCOM/November – Officials will collect traditional Thanksgiving meal items Nov. 13 from 8 to 11 a.m. outside the Commissary for junior enlisted and civilian personnel in need.

First sergeants and other volunteers will then distribute those items at noon at the same location for E-1 through E-6 service members and Defense Department civilians from GS-1 through GS-9. 

“The Hanscom First Sergeants Council is committed to helping junior members of the workforce at Hanscom Air Force Base,” said Master Sgt. Ryan Francois, a first sergeant and event co-organizer. “The annual Turkey Drop is one of many ways we try to make a positive impact for those families who may need a little help this holiday season.”

Turkeys, hams, canned vegetables, cranberry sauce and pies are some of the food items first sergeants are requesting. Last year’s effort helped more than 200 Team Hanscom families.

Francois said that while the Turkey Drop’s intent is to help junior employees, the spirit is to help anyone in need. “While rank is certainly a criterion we use to determine those more likely in need, there are examples of others who could use help as well for a number of reasons,” he said. “Should you fall outside the specified ranks listed but require assistance, please contact your first sergeant to be included.”

In addition to people at Hanscom making donations, outside organizations will also help.

“This year we have partnered with the Red Cross and Military Friends Foundation to make this event a little bigger and more special for Team Hanscom,” said Francois.

Organizers also encourage those who might have difficulty making it to the Commissary parking lot at the allotted times, due to work schedules or other reasons, to contact a first sergeant to make alternate arrangements. 
The First Sergeant Council is also seeking volunteers to help during the event. Anyone interested can contact Francois at 781-225-1302 or by email at ryan.francois@us.af.mil. 

The annual Thanksgiving food collection, known now as Turkey Drop, began in 2009 when local chief master sergeants organized a “Turkey Give and Take.” 

Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/640159/hanscoms-turkey-drop