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Photo Information

Volunteers prepare hot dogs during the Boys and Girls Club Day for Kids Celebration 2016 at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 17, 2016. The celebration offered snacks for the guests who attended such as hot dogs, cotton candy, popcorn and shaved ice. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Joseph Abrego)

Photo by Lance Cpl. Joseph Abrego

Celebration for kids

19 Sep 2016 | Lance Cpl. Joseph Abrego Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan

Day for Kids Celebration gave children an opportunity to interact with other children in a safe environment. It also allowed parents to visit booths with information on local resources and opportunities available to them as well as their children. 

“I was grateful the rain stayed away and gave us a chance to hold the event,” said Dorothy Seabrook, chief of Marine and Family Programs at MCAS Iwakuni. “The children were excited to interact with other kids through multiple games and activities, and the parents were happy that their children were able to play safely. It was a great turn out.”

 

Seabrook said it’s important to take time away from everything happening on the air station and shift focus toward the children and allow them to enjoy themselves. 

Entertainment was plentiful as local dancers took the stage and performed multiple routines for everyone in attendance. During the event, there were also bouncy houses, singing and raffles, which gave everyone in attendance the opportunity to win prizes. 

“This was a great thing for the kids,” said Heather Felon, a mother and air station resident. “I know my kids were excited to get out for the day, and after showing up, I was able to see the joy in all of the kids’ faces. I’m looking forward to more events like this with my children while I’m here in Iwakuni.” 

Between the dancing, singing and raffles, guests were able to fuel their fun and replenish their thirst as food and beverages were provided. Guests had the options of hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, shaved ice and water. 

“I had a lot of fun,” said Hailey Gee, vice president of the Keystone Club. “This year we had more volunteers than any previous year that I’ve been a part of. It shows that the local community wants to come together for the children and do something great.”

With the increase of volunteers, amount of guests and children in attendance, Day for Kids Celebration was a successful and enjoyable day for all. 

“We will continue to support Day for Kids,” said Seabrook. “I believe it will always hold value within our community.”


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