Students from Rhame Avenue School in East Rockaway joined a heartwarming community tradition on Dec. 8, participating in the 22nd annual Trees for Troops event at Dee's Nursery in Oceanside. The initiative delivers Christmas trees to U.S. service members stationed overseas, bringing a touch of home to those serving far from their families during the holidays.

The Trees for Troops program began in 2004 when a mother walked into Dee's Nursery with a simple request: could they send a Christmas tree to her son deployed overseas? With assistance from DHL, that single tree reached the serviceman, sparking what would become a remarkable partnership.

Since that first delivery, Dee's Nursery and DHL have worked together to send more than 14,000 Christmas trees to troops stationed around the world, including locations in Bahrain, Kuwait and Djibouti.

Dee's Nursery itself embodies the American dream. Founded 70 years ago as a flower cart by Tom DiDominica, the family-run business has grown into a cornerstone of the Oceanside community. Today, Tom's son Joe runs the nursery, with four generations of the DiDominica family contributing to its legacy.

This year's event showcased the power of community collaboration, bringing together numerous organizations, schools and public service agencies. Local police departments and the MTA provided escort for trucks carrying trees to DHL's facility at JFK Airport, where the trees began their international journey. Partners including TSA and border control played essential roles in facilitating the logistics.

The Oceanside Fire Department, Nassau County fire marshals and several veterans' groups – including the VFW, Patriot Riders and American Legion chapters – attended the ceremony. The Girl Scouts of Nassau County also participated in the day's activities.

Students from Rhame Avenue School joined their peers from Hewlett and Oceanside High School at the event, bringing special meaning to the occasion. Rhame Avenue student Steven delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude, sharing that his own brother currently serves overseas with the U.S. Navy. He was accompanied by members of Rhame's Student Council and World Culture Clubs, who proudly represented their school community.

The event featured musical performances and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Students from all participating schools shared letters they had written to service members, adding personal touches that will travel thousands of miles to remind troops they are remembered and appreciated.

Following the ceremony at Dee's Nursery, participants traveled to JFK Airport to help load the trees onto a DHL cargo plane bound for military bases overseas. The hands-on experience allowed students to see firsthand how their community efforts translate into tangible support for service members.

For the students of Rhame Avenue School, the Trees for Troops event offered more than just a chance to give back – it provided a meaningful connection to the men and women serving their country and a reminder that even small gestures can bring comfort and joy to those far from home during the holiday season.

Click here to view CBS’s coverage of Trees for Troops.