Chimugukuru Center celebrates military children during carnival

Photo By Sgt. Nicholas Ranum | A child knocks down a pyramid of cans at a carnival on Camp Foster April 27 while her dad cheers her on.  

OKINAWA, JAPAN

04.27.2012

Story by Lance Cpl. Donald Peterson 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

The Chimugukuru Center on Camp Foster celebrated the Month of the Military Child with a carnival April 27, which included recreational games and activities for the children of the center.
The Month of the Military Child is a time to honor, recognize, and thank the children of military personnel for the sacrifices they make daily.
Throughout the month of April, the center has celebrated military children with many activities. It concluded the monthlong celebration with a carnival, featuring Okinawan and American flair.
“It’s important that we take the time to appreciate the sacrifices the children make with having to move around all the time,” said Jocelyn Simmons, Chimugukuru Child Development Center director. “It’s also important that they experience the culture and learn from it.”
The carnival began with the Japanese and American national anthems followed by a performance from the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band.
“It’s such a great experience for the children to have everyone come out and volunteer to help recognize them,” said Sgt. Renee A. Caseman, a postal clerk with Marine Corps Base Camp Butler Consolidated Postal System, whose child is enrolled in the center.
Staff and students from the Nishibaru Preschool and the Ballet Folklorica Mexicana de Okinawa performed dance routines at the event. Marine volunteers from various units helped with arts and crafts, face painting and food service.
“The most important part of this is the bonding, whether it’s between the children and parents or (sharing experiences) with the Okinawan children,” said Caseman.
As the carnival ended and the families began to leave, one could hear voices of several children saying that they did not want to leave, and instead wanted to stay and play more games.
“With the help of (members of the local community) and Marines, the carnival was an enjoyable event for everyone,” said Simmons.

• Date Taken: 04.27.2012
• Date Posted: 05.03.2012 21:20
• Story ID: 87851
• Location: OKINAWA, JP