MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. --
The cool
autumn breeze blew leaves of yellow, orange and brown from the tree tops as the
sun began to set over Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. More than 100
Marines, Sailors and their families arrived at Marine Air Control Squadron 2’s
parade deck for the squadron’s Fall Family Festival, Oct. 22.
As the
service members and their families entered the event, they enjoyed free games
and contests, bouncy houses, a movie and a bonfire, along with other
family-friendly events.
According
to Lt. Col. Charles E. Smith, commanding officer of the squadron, events like
the Fall Family Festival would not be possible without the Marines who take
time to put it together, set up and participate in the event by attending and
bringing their families.
The
event featured a chili cook-off where Marines from the squadron prepared their
best chili recipe and a costume contest where participants were awarded prizes
in various categories.
“Events
like this where Marines get to come out, cook chili, participate in fun games
and enjoy each other’s company tie into our squadron’s family readiness program
and are beneficial to the Marines because it builds camaraderie and keeps the
Marines in high spirits,” explained Smith. “The event is our squadron’s way of
welcoming in the fall season and allowing the Marines and Sailors to come
together and interact with their chain of command. This is the command’s way of
thanking our Marines for their good work in maintaining our excellent readiness
here at MACS-2.”
The Fall
Family Festival is just one of the many events the squadron hosts for the
service members throughout the year. MACS-2 is a large squadron made up of many
sections, so events like the festival help build connections and broaden
communications between the service members, explained Smith.
“It is
important to have a balance between work and play,” said Smith. “Events like
the festival increase camaraderie. Anytime we can meet out of uniform, relax
and let our hair down, tell stories and share a meal together, it boosts morale
and is a great way to have fun.”
According
to Pfc. Cody Harman, a tactical air defense controller with MACS-2, the best
part of events like the festival is meeting Marines within the squadron you may
never have otherwise met.
“I have
been to several events like this with MACS-2 and I always enjoy getting out of
uniform, volunteering to help at the events and interacting with Marines and
their families,” explained Harman.
The
Marines of MACS-2 work tirelessly to keep the squadron mission ready, so when
they have the opportunity to get together, learn about each other and de-stress,
it rejuvenates them and brings a level of motivation to keep working hard every
day, explained Harman.