‘Operation Elf’ offers holiday spirit and snacks to military travelers

Military service members making their way home on holiday leave had some special treats waiting for them as they traveled through MSP Airport last week.  

The MAC teamed up with Flagship Facility Services, the MSP Airport Armed Forces Service Center and the Airport Foundation MSP on an “Operation Elf” effort to provide gift bags to uniformed personnel as they transited the country to be with their loved ones during a well-deserved break.  

The Armed Forces Service Center has long offered treats to service members during the annual Holiday Block Leave. This year, MSP’s janitorial service provider wanted to build upon the service center’s efforts by offering additional provisions.  

The Armed Forces Service Center had their own location in the North Main Mall and had 500 boxes of chocolates to hand out to uniformed service members that were connecting through MSP. 

Flagship’s corporate and local teams donated items — including snacks, candy and gum — and distributed them to service members at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 on Dec. 20 and 21. 

The MAC’s Terminal Operations and Facilities team assisted with facilitating the effort and packing the 400 patriotic gift bags, and the Airport Conference Center identified the ideal giveaway locations. The Airport Foundation also pitched in to secure a donation of Nickelodeon Universe passes from the Mall of America.  

“Flagship saw an opportunity to thank active-duty military,” said Alex Oster, assistant director of Terminal Operations and Facilities for the MAC, “acknowledging their service and providing something extra for them for the holiday season.”