The Home Depot’s Iconic Skeleton Brings Smiles to a Navy Base in Japan

Asemoon "Sky" Amirazodi is currently stationed in Iwukuni, Japan with her husband who is on deployment with the United States Navy. He was recently promoted to chief, and although Sky was very proud of him, she was sad she couldn't be there to place his chief pin on his uniform.

Determined to channel her energy positively, Sky embarked on a mission of her own: securing one of The Home Depot's coveted 12-foot skeletons for their military base.

Sky has always wanted one, but military deployments, high demand and the COVID-19 pandemic made it difficult.

Despite her relentless efforts, she encountered numerous roadblocks with overseas shipping. Skelly is priced at $299, but she was quoted more than $1,300 to ship the giant skeleton. She went through every avenue possible, even flying to The Home Depot store in Guam, but the timing just didn't work out.

Finally, Sky reached out to Lance Allen, senior merchant for decorative holiday at The Home Depot. He responded, and within a matter of weeks, Skelly arrived with his canine friend - just in time for Halloween!

"I figured the surprise would be worth it," Lance Allen shares. "I hope it's an extremely memorable Halloween this year!"

Sky lives near the elementary and high school. She says the joy it has brought on base has been phenomenal. Kids run over to her home every day after school, and uniformed Marines often stop by for a selfie.

Sky's husband is scheduled to return home later this year. While she plans to keep the spooky duo up for him and his fellow sailors to enjoy, she also intends to leave Skelly and the dog in their yard year-round. She notes that it has brought "so much happiness" to their military community.

Despite this being one of their most challenging deployments, the gesture of kindness has profoundly impacted her life.