CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- More than 1,000 Marines, sailors and their families were treated to a family day at Camp Horno here Feb. 20.
The servicemembers, assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, were afforded this opportunity to unwind after a deployment with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.
“It’s great to have time to decompress and relax,” said Staff Sgt. George B. Hill, a father of two and platoon sergeant for Company I. “Especially after just coming back from a deployment with the MEU… and getting ready to leave again in July.”
There was barbecued food, refreshments, a live band and an inflated playhouse for the children.
“This helps the kids get to know each other,” said Sgt. Edgardo DelValle, a father of five, and food service specialist with 3/1. “It’s good because it brings the families together.”
The event was sponsored by members of the Huntington Beach 3/1 Marines Foundation. The group adopted the battalion in April 2005 and has been involved in various events since they adopted the battalion.
“We do whatever we can do for the Marines and their families,” said Cindy Cross, a volunteer with the foundation. “Whether they’re here, or deployed.”
Many volunteers said surrendering their free time was a small price to pay for the Marines who have made countless sacrifices so Americans can live.
“It’s the least I can do to pay back our country and service members,” said Barbara Pimental, a volunteer with Huntington Beach 3/1 Marines Foundation. “So many Marines have come up to us to thank us. We’re here to help and they’re thanking us!”