FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas - Organization Day is an annual tradition in the Army and a time when Army units will set aside one day to enjoy food, fun, and Family. Army Medical command (MEDCOM) employees at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, had their day of camaraderie and esprit de corps as command employees and family members celebrated MEDCOM Organization Day (O’Day) Nov. 7 at Rio Cibolo Ranch.
Gatherings such as this are all about strengthening the bonds that hold us together as an Army Medicine team and as a Family,” said Lt. Gen. Patricia D. Horoho, the surgeon general and commanding general U.S. Army Medical Command. Horoho’s annual check-up on the health and well-being of MEDCOM employees at home and work is best reflected at O’Day when soldiers, civilians, and families gather to fellowship and enjoy the open spaces.
Team, I recognize this has been an especially challenging year, with sequestration, the government shutdown, and the ensuing furloughs of our civilian teammates,” said Horoho during her opening remarks at O’Day. In closing, she left behind a non-negotiable prescription for the day; “Turn off your blackberries, enjoy the great food, have fun participating in the wide array of activities, socialize, and relax a little.”
A few hundred employees attended the event and had their choice of activities in which to participate, including those for children and spouses. The event consisted of a full day of entertainment and fun including a large buffet lunch, miscellaneous games such as potato sack racing, hamster ball and egg tossing, recreational sports, and team competitions. Kids enjoyed The Kiddie Corral Playground, took a barge or hay ride, or went fishing or canoeing. “There was something for everyone,” said O'Day Chairperson, Deborah Bowman.
Funds for O’Day are raised through year-long employee concession sales.