WASHINGTON (Aug. 15, 2014) -- Friends, families, and co-workers enjoyed the beautiful late summer weather and the esprit de corps at the annual Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region/U.S. Army Military District of Washington Organizational Day picnic at Fort Lesley J. McNair, D.C.
The event was filled with a full day of competitive games, children's activities, music, static displays by the U.S. Army Air Operations Group (AAOG) and The Old Guard Caisson Platoon, K9 demonstration by the 241st Military Police Detachment from Fort George G. Meade, Md., and a catered picnic lunch hosted by Maj. Gen. Jeffrey S. Buchanan, JFHQ-NCR/MDW commanding general.
"We had picture perfect weather and a record breaking attendance," said Robert Johnson, J4 Logistics Senior Supply Management officer and the main organizer of Organization Day. "The initial planning began in February with six fundraisers over the last six months."
The competitive events consisted of basketball, horseshoes, volleyball, a fitness walk/run, and the Izzy Dizzy relay.
"I had a wonderful time. My family could not stop talking about all the games and entertainment," said Sgt. 1st Class Nyesha J. Favorite, AAOG Sexual Assault Response Coordinator. "My favorite event was the Izzy Dizzy relay; it was the funniest event of the day."
Making a special appearance at the picnic were members of Vader's 501st Legion, a social group of Star Wars costume enthusiasts, the U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" Swamp Romp, the Nat mobile, the USO mobile and three Washington Redskins Cheerleaders.
"I find that the picnic is a great team building event, allowing people to branch out beyond their own typical office mates and meet others in the command," said Sgt. William C. Chappell, Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region/U.S. Army Military District of Washington command driver. "The food was fantastic! I think it was well executed and well planned."
A moon bounce, face painting and a balloon toss were among the activities for some of the smaller members of the JFHQ-NCR/MDW Organization.
"I am an athlete, so getting to play an array of sports in one day was fantastic," said Chappell. "But seeing how much fun there was to be had for my toddler was amazing as well."
Competition for the coveted Commander's Cup was intense this year with AAOG winning the trophy.
"I am truly excited that we won. I am very proud of the AAOG team," said Favorite. "Our only strategy and goal was to have a great time and win. The Commander's Cup was in our front sight as well. We are small in numbers but we came out on top."
Related Links:
Learn more about the Old Guard Caisson Platoon
Learn more about The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own"
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