Photo By Damien Salas | Headquarters and Service Battalion, Headquarters Marine Corps, Henderson Hall Marine...... read more read more
ARLINGTON, Va. - From the Halls of Montezuma, to the cafeteria of Barcroft Elementary School. Headquarters and Service Battalion and Henderson Hall Marine Corps Community Services, School Liaison Program and the Arlington, Va., elementary school held a gala for the first time Nov. 14 to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Partnership in Education program.
Marines who serve at the Henderson Hall portion of Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall and Headquarters Marine Corps have been sent to volunteer at the south Arlington school since 1980.
In 1991, the school and Henderson Hall were the 400th recipients of former President George H.W. Bush’s daily Point of Light award, which celebrates volunteerism to spark change and improve the world through community service,” and since 1989, has recognized more than 5,000 honorees, according to the foundation’s website.
Dora Sue Black, Marine buddy liaison at Barcroft, has volunteered with the program since before it received the award. Showing children the grandeur of the Marine Corps gives them a new understanding of the world, and shows them the result of hard work, she said.
“They see the Marines every week, and I wanted them to celebrate that partnership,” said Black. “And I wanted to do it in a way that was outstandingly special for them. The Marine Corps made my dream come true for what I wanted for these children to experience.”
No detail was spared at the gala, which was modeled after a traditional Marine Corps birthday ceremony, complete with a color guard, cake cutting ceremony, recognition of the oldest and youngest students present, playing of The Marines’ Hymn and remarks by the guest of honor, Col. Anthony Barnes, H&S Battalion’s commander.
During a regular week, ceremonial units do not accompany the Marines who visit the school, but special events focusing on camaraderie and bonding provide a unique and fundamental experience for students, according to Black.
Gunnery Sgt. Jason Surratt has volunteered as a Marine buddy for two years simply because he “loves any type of volunteering,” and says the program helps relieve stress after a long day’s work.
“We keep the same kids through the program as they move up grades. Watching them progress and grow is rewarding,” said Surratt.
“Sometimes when you have a rough day at work, coming here and making a difference in these kids’ lives makes you feel better.”
After the ceremony and cake eating, students and their families, Marines, MCCS and Barcroft staff hit the floor for an evening of dance competitions and good fun.
| Date Taken: | 11.14.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 11.21.2014 17:11 |
| Story ID: | 148547 |
| Location: | ARLINGTON, VA, US |
| Web Views: | 213 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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