Each year, the arrival of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree captures the spirit of the holiday season, and this year is no different. The 2024 tree, hailing from Alaska, has made its epic 4,293-mile cross-country trek to the Capitol, with its arrival celebrated as part of this cherished American tradition.
Selected from the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States, this year’s tree is an impressive 80-foot Sitka spruce. Nicknamed the "People's Tree," it embodies more than just seasonal cheer; it stands as a symbol of teamwork and dedication from numerous contributors along its lengthy route to Washington, D.C.
The spruce was harvested by U.S. Forest Service crews back on October 19, and its long travel began. Accompanying this colossal tree on its ride was Lynden Transport, with seasoned drivers Fred Austin and John Schank behind the wheel of their Kenworth T680 tractor and customized flatbed trailer. Schank, who famously drove the tree to D.C. nearly ten years ago, expressed his excitement about being part of the experience once again.
“At the end of the day, it’s just good to be part of Christmas and the Capitol Tree project,” Schank shared, reflecting on his history with the event. His driving partner, Austin, who has worked with Lynden since 1974, expressed a similar enthusiasm for delivering the tree and meeting new members of the community along the way.
The process of preparing the tree for transit was significant. For the first time, the tree was harvested with its root mass intact, which required additional handling and specialized machinery to facilitate its transport. Members of the 316th Civil Engineer Squadron collaborated with the U.S. Forest Service and private companies to prepare the tree for display. Heavy machinery was brought to lift the tree carefully, making necessary adjustments before it was unveiled during its public viewing.
On November 21, the tree made its first public appearance at Joint Base Andrews, where service members and families gathered to celebrate its arrival. The deputy commander of the 316th Wing commented on the importance of the event and how the tree symbolizes the collaborative efforts of different organizations.
“This tree is not just a wonderful symbol of Christmas; it embodies the commitment and teamwork of many people who made this possible,” Colonel Jun S. Oh remarked. The spirit of unity was felt as volunteers worked tirelessly to prepare the tree for its big reveal.
Meanwhile, Verizon Frontline's Crisis Response Team played its part during the tree’s harvest and travel, enabling key communications services throughout the event. The team deployed various technologies to provide communication assistance, making sure all parties involved had the tools they needed to keep the event running smoothly.
“Working with public safety and government agencies on such unique operations allows us to refine our capabilities,” said Paul Wood, senior manager with Verizon Frontline. The technical support was invaluable during the tree's transportation, ensuring everything went by the book.
The logistics behind delivering the tree are quite impressive. From its harvest to its transportation by barge to Seattle, where truck drivers took over, the operation showcased extensive planning and execution. The tree was borne across the land from the forests of Alaska to the steps of the Capitol, making numerous stops along the way to engage with different communities.
Each year, the Architect of the Capitol chooses the tree based on several criteria, including height, shape, characteristics, and durability for public display. The spruce this year was celebrated not just for its appearance but also because it was grown and raised by the local forest. Such trees are often adorned with over 3,500 ornaments made by citizens, reflecting the community spirit and creativity of the region it symbolizes.
Starting from December 3, the Capitol Christmas Tree will brighten D.C. with its glow, bringing folks together to celebrate the holiday season. The illumination ceremony itself will be a grand event, gathering people around this magnificent symbol of festivity and unity.
The Capitol Christmas Tree tradition has grown roots since its inception following the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony initiated by President Calvin Coolidge on Christmas Eve 1923. This year continues the legacy and reminds everyone of the heartwarming connections formed during the holiday season.
Whether through the hard work of the driving team, the responses of the Verizon Frontline team, or the dedication of the U.S. Forest Service, each individual is part of the larger story of the Capitol Christmas Tree—a story of collaboration, tradition, and the simple joy of sharing the holiday spirit.
Looking back at both the tradition and all the work involved, it’s clear; the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is more than just decoration. It’s about gathering, sharing, and celebrating our collective responsibility to maintain the holiday spirit for generations to come. This year’s spruce is sure to light up the Capitol and everyone’s hearts with its presence, marking another beautiful chapter in the American holiday narrative.
So as we approach the joyous season, let’s appreciate this beautiful gift from the fabled forests of Alaska to the iconic steps of the U.S. Capitol. What started as the simple act of choosing and transporting a tree has turned out to be so much more—a celebration of community, resilience, and holiday cheer shared across the nation.
