FORT KNOX, Ky. – The Fort Knox Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation organization hosted a welcome home celebration for the soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Duke Brigade at Fort Knox.
The event included carnival rides and activities, such as an egg-in-spoon race, three-legged race and a hot dog eating competition for adults and children.
The day was sunny and clear, and the 113th Army Band provided music throughout the day.
Patrons had the opportunity to enjoy foods from the concession stands and could enter to win prizes from companies that helped sponsor the event.
The welcome home celebration gave the families of the Dukes an opportunity to relax and enjoy the day.
Sgt. 1st Class Alicia Rodriguez of Headquarters Company, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, said she was glad she and her family went.
“My favorite part was the rides they had for the children,” she said. “They liked the mini-Ferris wheel ride the most. The family had a great time, it was better than we expected.”
Many children took advantage of the competitions that were offered during the daylong event. The carnival contained 12 different competitions and many different rides.
Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Davis, the chaplain’s assistant for the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, said the event was a success.
“The kids loved it,” said Davis. “I always take advantage of events like this on post for the family. We had a blast.” He added that his kids enjoyed the rides and the competitions the most.
The FMWR put on the event as a way of welcoming back the Soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team from their recent deployment to Afghanistan, from which they returned in January.