UPDATE: A heartwarming Christmas tradition honoring fallen U.S. Marine Sergeant Apollo Morgan has gained momentum, sparking gratitude and community spirit in Jasper, Alabama. This touching story began in December 2011 when local resident Nikki Shipman spotted a “Welcome Home USMC Sgt Morgan” sign, igniting a personal mission to express appreciation for military service.
After witnessing the sign on Airport Road, Nikki felt compelled to show her gratitude. Just three days later, she purchased a poinsettia and nervously approached the Morgan home to thank the family for Sergeant Morgan’s service. Her heartfelt gesture marked the beginning of a beautiful relationship with Morgan’s family, though Nikki’s initial delivery did not unfold as planned.
In a tragic turn, Sergeant Apollo Morgan was killed in December 2020, while stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. His mother, Anna Burg, was devastated by the loss. However, the bond between Nikki and Anna emerged stronger each year, as Nikki continued her tradition of gifting poinsettias to Anna, symbolizing love and remembrance.
The emotional reunion occurred when Nikki revisited the Morgan home, almost a decade after her initial visit. “I passed by his house and thought of how I messed up my visit in 2011,” Nikki recalled. Upon meeting Anna, she learned that the poinsettia had deeply touched Sergeant Morgan, who cherished it during his time in the military.
As Christmas approached in December 2020, Nikki decided to enhance her annual gift by delivering a special poinsettia to Anna. “I wanted Anna to know her son was loved,” said Nikki. This tradition has continued for six consecutive years, with Anna expressing her gratitude: “Looking at Nikki’s poinsettias makes us think of Apollo.”
Nikki and Anna’s bond deepened further when Anna began baking Apollo’s favorite cookies, delivering them to Nikki’s office every December. “While we miss our son, it’s good to know there are nice people in the world,” Anna shared, reflecting on the enduring connection forged through kindness.
This story highlights not only the impact of small gestures but also the power of community, especially during the holiday season. As families gather to celebrate, the Burgs and Shipmans continue to honor Sergeant Apollo Morgan’s legacy while embracing the warmth of friendship and gratitude.
With the holiday season approaching, both families look forward to their annual tradition, a poignant reminder of love and sacrifice. This compelling story exemplifies how simple acts of kindness can create lasting bonds and foster a spirit of gratitude that resonates far beyond the Christmas season.
