Ellsworth boy donates toys

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Abigail Klein
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  In the spirit of holiday giving, six-year-old Alexander Roper, son of Staff Sgt. Andrew Roper, 28th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels accountant, recently donated gifts from his birthday to an Ellsworth family.

The event took place at the Airman and Family Readiness Center, and was facilitated by Tech. Sgt. Ann Mitchell, 28th Force Support Squadron NCO in charge, after receiving a call from Alexander's mother, Amie.

"My son had made this decision before his sixth birthday," Mrs. Roper said. "He decided that since his birthday was so close to Christmas, he would get enough presents from Santa and didn't need birthday gifts."

This decision prompted Mrs. Roper to notify guests to Alexander's birthday party that the gifts would be donated to families in need of holiday toys.

"The guests of his birthday party really helped us out with the donations," Mrs. Roper said. "I can't thank them enough."

After Alexander's party, Mrs. Roper contacted the AFRC and spoke with Sergeant Mitchell who was moved by the offering, and knew an Ellsworth family who could benefit from the donation.

"Caring for our Airmen and their families is one of the Air Force's top priorities," she said. "It's nice to see this mission of caring has extended to future generations."

The family who benefited from the donation was Staff Sgt. Stephen Boulton's, who is currently away in preparation of a deployment. His wife Cheryl and their six children, Ryan, Emma, Jackson, Hailey, Tyler and Benji, met for the first time with Alexander and his parents for the at the AFRC.

"This is like nothing I've ever seen before," said Mrs. Boulton. "All of my kids are very excited."

As for the impact this act of giving has had on Alexander, his mother hopes it is one he will not forget.

"I think this is a great a great lesson and you should always want to pass it on," Mrs. Roper said. "I hope this is a lesson that will stick with him for the rest of his life."

For more information about how to help families during the holiday's, or for information on how to aid families of deployed member, contact the AFRC at (605) 385-4663.