MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — When people think of July 4th, many of them remember barbecuing food and fireworks lighting up the night sky.
In keeping with the spirit of Independence Day, Marine Corps Community Services Camp Pendleton hosted the Ken Grody Ford Beach Bash 2009 at Del Mar Beach, Saturday, to help Marines, Sailors and their families celebrate the holiday with food, fun and fireworks.
There were many activities for the beach-goers to enjoy such as volleyball tournaments, temporary tattoo parlors and climbing walls in addition to the many free interactive games available for all age groups.
The Fourth of July Beach Bash celebration was open to all military, Department of Defense employees and their sponsored guests.
"It gives the military and their families an opportunity to enjoy their Fourth of July in a safe place that is close to their homes," said Michael Wilkinson, deputy director of the MCCSCP Semper Fit Division.
Concessions filled the air with the fresh smell of hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos and ice cream as patrons kept cool under the sun with ice-cold beverages.
Representatives from Ken Grody Ford attended the event, passing out cards for a chance to win a car. People gathered around placing their names in a box, hoping their name would be the one drawn for a 2007 Ford Focus.
In addition to food and games there were live bands playing songs throughout the day for a crowd of thousands of people.
"Everything was awesome," said Cpl. Mathew Bryan, a small arms repair technician, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marines Logistics Group, 20, from Detroit. "The food, bands and activities were great. I can't wait to come out for next year's bash."
Before the car give-away many small items like shirts and beach balls were thrown into the crowd. Everyone ran like a herd of buffalo to the front of the stage to get their chance at a prize.
The Beach Bash ended with a fireworks show and an after party, wrapping up yet another successful July 4th celebration with a bang.