The 2002 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree was a 70-foot Douglas fir from the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon. The 2011 tree will come from the Stanislaus forest in California.

[Rep. Buck McKeon] – This Saturday, Nov. 12, in honor of our Armed Forces, Rep. Howard P. “Buck” McKeon will collect holiday cards at the Capitol Christmas Tree Viewing in Santa Clarita.

“Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for the service of our brave men and women in uniform.  Especially during the holiday season we are reminded of the many blessings we are to be thankful for-most of all our freedom and safety.  As these soldiers are stationed away from their loved ones, it is important that we remember those who continually sacrifice to defend our freedoms and allow us to be safe at home as we celebrate the holidays.

“Last year, I had the opportunity to visit our troops in Afghanistan for the holidays. I brought them over 3,000 cards all written by my constituents back home. It was incredible to see how such a small gesture can bring so much joy to our troops.

“This year, we have a unique chance in Santa Clarita to see the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree as it makes its way to D.C. from California. I hope that families across Los Angeles County will take this opportunity to come together as a community and thank our troops for their deep sacrifice.”

McKeon will be collecting cards for the troops at the Saugus Speedway from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. His staff will also be collecting cards in all of his district offices until Nov. 21.