SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii - Sounds of video games rang from the Tropics here, Nov. 14, as more than 100 family members joined to kick off Family Fun Fridays.
Children chased each other on the grounds as a small group of spouses sat around a table, talking story. Across the room Maj. Andy Anderson, U.S. Army Dental Activity, Hawaii, taught his 9-year-old son, Christian, how to play pool and the Mason family competed in a friendly game of Wii bowling. Outside, children of all ages took turns hitting the volleyball over the net and 5-year-old Hunter Coyle carried around a football with a determined look on his face, challenging every passerby to a game.
The "price was right" for Blue Star Card holders as they competed in a mock game of the popular game show, in celebration of the Big R: Countdown to Redeployment. Tim Pugh, marketing and sponsorship for Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR), invited family members to "come on down" to play games including "Grab 'n Go" and "More or Less" for a chance to win prizes and participate in the showcase showdown.
Family member Michelle Postelwait took home the grand prize after closely bidding on her showcase, "An Adventure of Fire and Fins," without going over. Postelwait received a trip for two to the Big Island, including airfare from Hawaiian Airlines and one night stay at Kilauea Military Camp. She also received two tickets to Sea Life Park.
Family member Amy Schurdt was a lucky winner after her raffle ticket was pulled to receive "An Experience of Culture and Comfort." Schurdt will soon experience a one-night stay at the Waikoloa Marriott Hotel on the Big Island with airfare courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines. along with four tickets to the Royal Luau.
As the showcase showdown ended, Pugh reminded all in attendance to help control the pet population in true Bob Barker fashion.
Maj. Gen. Robert Caslen Jr., commanding general, 25th Infantry Division, took the stage to offer his gratitude to the organizations taking care of military families.
"It means so much to the Soldiers to know that the family they left behind are being taken care of," said Caslen. "It is good to know that families are being provided a night out."
Caslen then turned his attention to the military spouses.
"When they write about this war, they will write about you, too," he said. "And the sacrifice you make to support your spouse. We appreciate it."
From video games to volleyball, Family Fun Fridays provided a relaxing and fun-filled night for kids of all ages. Families continued to dine on pizza specials, create ice cream sundae concoctions and play games well into the night.
"It's great to see so many families here and supporting this cause," said Anderson. "And the kids are having a great time."
Family Fun Fridays will continue on the first and third Friday of each month, beginning Dec. 5, promoting family togetherness and the amenities the Tropics has to offer.
"We are so happy to see so many families out and enjoying the activities that are available to them," said Matt Enoch, manger of Tropics Recreation Center, FMWR. "We aim to provide a safe and fun environment right here on Schofield Barracks, with little cost to family members."
When asked what the best thing about hanging out at the Tropics on Friday night was, 7-year-old Shyanna Lowers replied, "We have fun together, as a family."
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