On December 23, 2024, the Puerto Rico State Guard’s (State Defense Force) 1st Air Base Group, in collaboration with the Puerto Rico Air National Guard, brought holiday cheer to children and families in need. Under the leadership of Capt. Luis Carbonell (Mission Support), Capt. Juan Hernández (Medical Squadron), Capt. Francisco Ayende (A3), and SrA Abdiel Rivera, the group organized a special activity at the Believe and Joy Home in Dorado, a facility dedicated to supporting vulnerable children and households.
The event provided joy and relief to 50 children and other homes associated with the organization. It featured educational talks, engaging games, gift distribution, and food, showcasing the Puerto Rico State Guard and Air National Guard’s shared commitment to community service. Leaders from both organizations, including Col. Alexis Santiago and BG (PR) Edrick Ramírez, extended heartfelt wishes of Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all attendees, emphasizing the spirit of collaboration and unity.
The active participation of the Puerto Rico Air National Guard highlighted the strong partnership between the State Guard and the National Guard, illustrating their joint efforts to support both community needs and critical missions across the island. This event is a testament to the coordinated work of these two forces, who consistently prioritize the well-being of Puerto Rico’s residents.
Notably, the Puerto Rico State Guard is one of the few State Defense Forces in the United States to maintain an Air Component. This specialized unit works closely with the Puerto Rico Air National Guard on a variety of missions, ranging from operational support to security initiatives. Their unique capabilities further enhance the Guard’s ability to serve the community and support broader military objectives.
Through their holiday outreach, the Puerto Rico State Guard and Air National Guard reaffirmed their commitment to service, bringing joy to children and families while demonstrating the impact of military-community collaboration. Their efforts continue to inspire and exemplify the profound role of State Defense Forces in both local and statewide initiatives.
On 23rd December, 2024 GNPR State Command Air Base Group 1st under the organization of Capt. Luis Carbonell (Mission Support) the Capt. Juan Hernandez (Medical Sq.), the Capt. Francisco Ayende (A3) and Mr. Abdiel Rivera, carried out an activity at the Believe and Joy Home in Dorado. They benefited 50 children and other households of the same entity with educational talks, games, gifts and food, reaffirming the State Command’s commitment to community service. The event was supported by Col. Alexis Santiago and the BG (PR) Edrick Ramirez, who extended wishes of Merry Christmas and New Year on behalf of the Unit.
On December 23, 2024, the 1st Air Base Group of the Puerto Rico State Guard Command, organized by Capt. Luis Carbonell (Mission Support), Capt. Juan Hernández (Medical Sq.), Capt. Francisco Ayende (A3), and SrA Abdiel Rivera, held an activity at the Believe and Joy Home in Dorado. The event benefited 50 children and other homes managed by the same organization, offering educational talks, games, gifts, and food, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to community service. The initiative was supported by Col. Alexis Santiago and BG (PR) Edrick Ramírez, who extended Christmas and New Year greetings on behalf of the Unit.
Source: Puerto Rico State Guard
