Operation Green Santa brightens season

AUSTIN (KXAN) - If you have a family member serving overseas, these holidays can feel a little empty -- especially for the kids.

However, the kids are far from forgotten at Camp Mabry.

Organized by the Military Moms of Texas, Operation Green Santa featured train rides, Santa, clowns, music and gifts -- something for everyone, young and old.

"The reason we're here today, the reason we celebrate any day including Christmas: it's them," said Tracy Laporte, with Military Moms of Texas. "They're over there for us. Their kids are here for Christmas. Coming out here to support them, what more could you ask for. They do everything for us."

Hundreds of Central Texas bikers set up donation bins across the area to collect the gifts.

Many of those bikers are Vietnam or Iraq vets who know what it's like to be away for the holidays.