CHERRY POINT, N.C. - For the fourth consecutive year Cherry Point spouses benefitted from the generosity of their fellow spouses and local businesses during the 4th Annual operation Ball Gown Sept. 28. The sold out event benefitted 250 spouses who received a free ball gown.
During the event, the spouses got to look through more than 350 dresses of all sizes for this year's ball.
"Marines and spouses benefit from this event by not only receiving a free gown, but also by learning proper etiquette, attire, and customs associated with attending the ball," said Alesha N. Burkeen, the host of the Operation Ball Gown 2012. "It is fun for everyone involved and it really helps reduce the financial stress that can accompany attending the ball.
"This is one area they can relax with and know they are getting a quality gown that was gifted to them by other spouses."
Operation Ball Gown is used to teach new Marine Corps spouses about the traditions and etiquette needed at the ball.
"I thought it was great for new Marine Corps wives. They stressed the importance of the heritage and the fact that the ball is about the Marines and their heritage," said Brooke Bentley, a Marine Corps spouse who will be attending her fifth Marine Corps Ball this year with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron. "This event is useful for Marine Corps wives of all ages either as a teaching tool or just a refresher."
The spouses who receive a ball gown save money that could be put towards other things, said Bentley
"This event has helped hundreds of spouses get a ball gown without having to spend hundreds of dollars," added Bentley. "For some families this maybe another new toy for the little ones or even an extra few bucks towards a car payment."
The dresses that weren't given away will be available at the Whistle Stop Thrift Shop in Building 1691. For more information and times call (252) 444-0949.