MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. - Marines, Sailors and their family members enjoyed a day in the sun by participating in a family day hosted by Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 here, June 6.
Approximately 500 people came to enjoy the day’s festivities, which included bouncy houses, rock climbing, sports, food, prizes, music and more.
The squadron, responsible for providing all ground support assets to fixed-wing components, conducted the event to foster camaraderie and esprit de corps while building positive relationships between families.
Events like family days increase family readiness and ultimately mission readiness within the squadron, said Gunnery Sgt. Richard S. Johnston, the substance abuse counseling officer and deputy family readiness officer with the squadron.
“An event like this gives everyone a chance to actually sit with each other, break bread together and see all the resources that are available to not only the military members but to the spouses as well,” said Johnston.
Representatives from Marine Corps Family Team Building, the Family Advocacy Program, Career Assistance and Resource Services, the USO and Cherry Point Fire and Emergency Services came to inform participants about the resources available to them.
“We’re building camaraderie and strengthening the unit every time we host an event of this caliber,” said Johnston. “We hold this event every year, and every year it’s successful.”
A new addition to the squadron, Pfc. Alisa L. Davis, a logistics and embarkation specialist brought her family to the event and said they were having a great time.
“We’re socializing with people that we wouldn’t normally get a chance to and it’s great,” said Davis.