MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- More than 800 Station residents rocked out to live bands, enjoyed free food and beverages, and relaxed on the Torii Pines 9th hole for the Marine Corps Community Services 5th Annual Summer Music Festival, Sept. 16.
"The Summer Music Festival is an annual event in which MCCS shows its appreciation to the community," said Christopher Reitman, MCCS entertainment coordinator. "It is our chance to give back to the Station. We do that by producing a festival that is inclusive of live bands, food and drinks, and amusements that are all completely free of charge."
Residents showed up from all over the Station with chairs, blankets, family and friends to enjoy the community event.
"The festival sets the stage for the community to come out and become a little closer knit," said Reitman. "The festival gives them the opportunity to come out in full force to meet existing friends and make new ones."
"It breaks up the monotony of everyday life here on base," added Lance Cpl. Clint Blakney, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron accounting technician. "This is a chance for us to check out the local talent and it's also a time for the families to come out and enjoy themselves."
The festivals entertainment consisted of four bands; 7 Sons, Running with Scissors, Elements and 619; inflatable playgrounds for the children and, of course, the opportunity to sit back and lounge around in the great outdoors listening to great music.
"I believe that the entire event was a highlight; we had something for everyone," said Reitman. "The kids went nuts on the amusements, the Marines, young and old alike, enjoyed the show and the food was great. The club really came through and provided an excellent selection for over 1,000 guests."
It's not everyday the Station hosts a free-of-charge event with something for everyone. Residents who showed up soaked it all in, the music, the excitement, and ultimately the fun.
"This festival is awesome!" said Cpl. Wesly Vawter, H&HS finance technician. "I am out here with all of these people having a good time enjoying the live bands and free food."