Father Daughter Ball brings fathers, daughters together

By Mrs. Melissa K Buckley (Leonard Wood)February 28, 2014

Father Daughter Ball brings fathers, daughters together
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Nutter Field House has never seen so many tiaras -- which was fitting since the Father Daughter Ball is all about dads spending time with their princesses.

"You can feel the love in the room," said Capt. Terrance Bratton, CBRN Basic Officers Leadership Course small group leader. "Tonight we are making memories."

About 700 fathers and daughters filled the walls of the field house Saturday.

The Installation Chaplain's Office hosts this ball each year to give fathers the chance to spend some quality time with their daughters.

Bratton has three children, but only one daughter. He said he was proud to get to bring her to an event made just for them.

"She deserves to feel special all the time. She needs to learn the proper way a gentleman should treat a lady," Bratton said. "I want her to grow up to find a man like dear old dad -- a good man that loves her and wants to take care of her. He needs to support her and inspire her when she needs motivation."

His 13-year-old daughter, Jaila, said she had a lot of fun getting all dressed up for the event, but the best part of the night had nothing to do with glitz and glamour.

"My favorite thing about tonight is spending time with my dad," Jaila said.

Another daughter in attendance, Briana Hess, came to the event with her step-dad.

"He is a really important father figure to me. He does a lot for me. It's nice to get to spend some time with him," the 14-year-old said of her step-dad.

"I think this is awesome. I like being able to hang out -- just him and me.

We have a special bond."

The guest speaker for the ball was Col. Michael Thomas, Installation senior chaplain.

"Thousand of men and women can call you sergeant or top or captain or major or colonel. There are so few, maybe only one or two, who can call you dad. Of all the missions in my life, I want do this one right," Thomas said.

"I trust this will be an evening of good memories and a blessing your daughter will forever cherish. It is my prayer that your little girl, be she 7 or 27, will know your blessing, your affection, your unconditional love and acceptance."

A buffet dinner was served.

According to the chaplain's office, several Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines volunteered to work this event. The service members carried plates from the buffet for the girls too little to carry their own, there were ladies in the restroom to help the girls with bathroom breaks and wardrobe malfunctions, and they also worked in the coat check room.

A disc jokey and the 399th Army Rock Band, the "Rough Riders," provided entertainment

Related Links:

Fort Leonard Wood on Flickr

Fort Leonard Wood Guidon Newspaper

Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonad Wood