Team Dover honors Earth Day Published April 26, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Matthew Hubby 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- Children of Team Dover gathered to assist in the planting of a tree in honor of Earth Day April 22 at the Child Development Center. This tradition has been a part of Dover Air Force Base for 18 years, making Team Dover the longest running Tree City USA in the state of Delaware. This planting also marked the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. "We planted this tree, in the hopes that we can teach the next generation about its importance," said Col. Todd Emmert, 436th Maintenance Group commander. "Trees are a renewable resource; they give us shade, air and wood to make our homes. They are an important part of our planet and it is important we teach our children about them." The children gathered together around the tree and with the spades supplied, helped Colonel Emmert, as well as Michael Valenti, Delaware Forest Service acting state forester, fill in dirt around the roots of the new tree. "It was my honor to present Team Dover with a new Tree City USA Flag," said Mr. Valenti. "The dedication of Dover is outstanding; they are the only community in Delaware to have committed to this 18 years in a row. It's a testament to Dover that they have participated all these years."