CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Marines and sailors with 2nd Marine Logistics Group had the opportunity to spend Friday afternoon with their family and friends during the Spring Festival aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., May 11.
The event was organized to commemorate Military Spouse Appreciation Day.
“This took about six months of preparations,” explained Darlene M. Kern, the family readiness officer for Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 2nd MLG. “We planned to accommodate about 10,000 people.”
The organization was a team effort between family readiness officers and commands across the II Marine Expeditionary Force.
“2nd Marine Division sent some assets, as well as [2nd Marine Aircraft Wing], for our static display of vehicles and aircraft,” Kern said. “We also have some vehicles from units across the [2nd MLG].”
Pfc. Dakota R. Cannon, an engineer equipment operator with 2nd MLG, participated in the family day as one of the Marines in charge of explaining some of the vehicles.
“I am in charge of showing the [Tractor, Rubber-Tired, Articulated Steering, Multi-purpose vehicle],” Cannon said. “Even though this is a common piece of equipment that can be seen in the civilian companies, people are still interested in hearing what we do with them.”
Cannon expressed people were enthusiastic to learn about the equipment and hear what Marines had to say.
“I am really glad families have an opportunity to see what we do,” Cannon said.
The static display of military vehicles and aircraft was one of many other attractions offered for the general public at the event.
There were also inflatable games for children, a singing contest for single Marines and sailors, a medical static display focused on new spouses and a regimental tug-of-war competition.
The family day was a way for the 2nd MLG command to recognize families and friends of service members for their tireless support.
“We are hoping everybody enjoys themselves today and had a good time with their families,” Pamela S. Jude, the FRO for Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd MLG concluded. “We put this event together thinking about everybody in the unit … whether you are a Marine, sailor, or a spouse we are all part of it, we are all one big family.”