Base to hold tree lighting ceremony Published Dec. 7, 2006 By Chaplain (1st Lt.) Phil Hollstein 43rd Airlift Wing Chapel POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- This year marks the third annual Pope Holiday Tree Lighting. Come out and celebrate Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in front of the 43rd Airlift Wing headquarters building. As in past years, this event promises to be an exciting opportunity for Pope's families to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. There will be plenty of hot chocolate and Christmas carols before lighting the tree. Santa will join the festivities, and there will be fresh baked cookies for all to enjoy. The tree lighting will take place at the intersection of Maynard, Virgin and Ethridge Streets. Surrounding streets will be blocked off to traffic beginning at 5:30 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will take place at the Pope Chapel. For more information or any questions about this event, call the base chapel at 394-2677.